(1) Subject to a direction given under rule 505 , the referee—(a) may conduct the inquiry in a way the referee considers appropriate; and(b) is not bound by the rules of evidence, but may obtain information about a matter in the way the referee considers appropriate; and(c) may conduct a hearing for the inquiry; and(d) may require evidence to be given orally or in writing; and(e) may require evidence to be given on oath; and(f) has the same authority as a judge.
(2) In conducting the inquiry, the referee must observe the rules of natural justice.
(3) Despite subrule (1) (f) , the referee may not deal with a person for contempt.