Victorian Consolidated Legislation

Coroners Act 2008 - SECT 39

Powers of entry, search, inspection and possession

39. Powers of entry, search, inspection and possession



(1) A coroner who is investigating a death or a fire may, in writing,
authorise a member of the police force to investigate the death or fire by-

   (a)  breaking, entering and searching premises, using reasonable force if
        required;

   (b)  taking copies of any documents relevant to the investigation;

   (c)  seizing things (including documents) and taking samples, which may be
        relevant to the investigation.

(2) A coroner may exercise any of the powers specified in subsection (1) other
than the power to use reasonable force.

(3) A member of the police force or coroner who is authorised to exercise
powers under this section may do so with any assistance that is required.

(4) An authorisation under subsection (1) must-

   (a)  specify hours of the day in which the powers may be exercised by a
        member of the police force;

   (b)  specify a period (not exceeding 30 days) in which the powers may be
        exercised.

(5) A member of the police force authorised to enter premises under subsection
(1) must, if practicable, give a copy of the authorisation to a person who
appears to be the occupier of the premises and to be over the age of 16 years.