It was established and constituted by the Parliament of Antigua and Barbuda under the National Honours Act 1998.

[1] which received Royal Assent from the Governor-General of Antigua and Barbuda on 31 December 1998.

New appointments are announced each year on the occasion of the Independence Day of Antigua and Barbuda (1 November).

The Grand Master conducts investitures at Government House in St. John's.

Grand Crosses may petition for heraldic supporters to be granted to their arms.