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FACT SHEET
Court Security Bill 2017
The Court Security Bill 2017 provides the framework for the safe and orderly conduct of courts
in Tasmania.
This Bill will provide court security officers with a range of powers and functions that will assist in
the safe and efficient management of court premises. These include powers of search and seizure
and powers to remove persons from court premises.
This Bill will also provide a number of safeguards in relation to the exercise of these powers.
This Bill also sets out strict limitations on the use of electronic devices on court premises.
Specifically, journalists, legal practitioners and court officers will now be allowed to use electronic
devices within the courtroom for purposes including taking typed notes, sending and receiving
emails, using social media and undertaking research on the internet.
Other individuals can seek authorisation from a judicial officer to use an electronic device in court.
Making any audio or video recording of court proceedings, without express judicial permission
will remain prohibited.
The Bill will extend cover to those Tribunals who wish to come within its ambit. At present
Tribunals have almost no power to regulate conduct of persons attending hearings. This Bill
makes provision for regulations, rules, guidelines and directions to be made specific to a particular
court or tribunal. This acknowledges the very different role and proceedings undertaken in the
various courts and tribunals in the State.
This Bill is in line with legislative provisions in other Australian jurisdictions, and replaces the
Admissions to Courts Act 1916 and associated regulations.