The sheriff or security officers may use a walk-through metal detector and/or hand-held metal detector (known as the “Garrett Wand”) on persons who attend the Commission.
Firearms, knives, explosives or explosive materials, offensive weapons or any other items that could or are likely to adversely affect security and good order at the Commission are considered restricted items and are not permitted under section 8 of the Court Security Act 2005 (NSW) (Court Security Act).
People may be asked to leave the premises if they make threats, engage in harassment, racism, intimidation, violence, discrimination or any other form of contrary or disruptive behaviour.
CCTV is used at the Commission for security purposes. The Reporting Services Branch (RSB) are also permitted to record proceedings. Otherwise, there are strict limitations regarding any form of recording/photography at the Commission under the Court Security Act.
The unauthorised recording, photography, transmission or distribution of proceedings is a criminal offence unless permission has been obtained from the Commission. A security officer may ask a person suspected of breaching the restrictions to stop and/or delete the recording.
Members of the public have a right to enter and remain in open areas of the Commission. However, under s 7 of the Court Security Act, a judicial officer has the power to order the public, or specified members of the public, to leave or not be admitted to the Commission or a part of the Commission.
Security officers have certain powers under Part 3 of the Court Security Act to search people or vehicles, seize property, ask for identification particulars, request face coverings be removed, give directions to people at the Commission and assist law enforcement.
A security officer may, without a warrant, arrest a person if they are committing or it is believed on reasonable grounds that a person has committed an offence under the Court Security Act. This power extends to the assault of another person at the Commission.
It may be necessary to evacuate the premise and move to an Assembly Area depending on the nature and extent of the emergency. In the case of an emergency, follow the instructions of security officers and/or staff at the Commission.
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