Industrial Relations Commission Security Protocols Update

24 January 2023

The Registrar and I, in consultation with the Sheriff's office, have reviewed the security arrangements in place at the Commission in Parramatta and made some changes. These changes include the activation of the walk-through metal detector and the use of a hand-held metal detector by the Sheriff's officers. Persons attending the Commission premises at Parramatta, including the Registry staff, will be required to submit to the metal detectors. Exemptions apply pursuant to the Court Security Act 2005 for judicial officers, Sheriff's officers, and custodial officers in full uniform who have lawful custody of a person at the time. 

Walk-through metal detectors are quite common in court and tribunal premises and as their name suggests, they detect metal on a person or item. The hand-held metal detector (known as the "Garrett Wand") is used to find the relevant item if the walk-through metal detector has activated. Garrett Wands are also commonly used at courts and tribunals. 

We appreciate the understanding of parties and representatives as we work with the Sheriff's officers to streamline the new metal detection process at the Commission. Parties and representatives may wish to arrive at the Commission a little earlier than their listed time to ensure that they are not late for any matters.

Together with the Sheriff's office we will regularly review the Commission's security environment and these protocols may be updated from time to time.

N J Constant 

Chief Commissioner