What we do

We inspect and monitor how WA government agencies use certain powers.

Powers granted to public authorities are intended to combat criminal behaviour and support community safety but can also impact privacy and freedoms. Through our inspection and monitoring role, we promote improvements to the practices and procedures of public authorities. We provide independent assurance that the powers are exercised lawfully.

We report on our work to Parliament through the responsible Minister.

Inspection of telecommunications interception records

The WA Police Force and the Corruption and Crime Commission (CCC) are permitted under legislation to carry out telecommunication interceptions in Western Australia. “Telecommunication interception” is commonly known as tapping someone’s phone.

We inspect the records of these agencies at least twice each year to assess that they are complying with the law.

We report to the responsible Minister on the results of our inspections.

Monitoring of Unlawful Consorting and Prohibited Insignia powers

The WA Police Force have certain powers to disrupt criminal organisations through unlawful consorting notices and prohibited insignia.

“Unlawful consorting” means to be with another person or communicate with another person when doing so has been banned.

“Prohibited insignia” means the name, logo or patch of an identified criminal organisation, such as an outlaw motorcycle gang.

We monitor these powers by inspecting the records of the WA Police Force. We provide an annual report to the Attorney General and the Commissioner of Police about our work.

Monitoring of Protected Entertainment Precincts

The Protected Entertainment Precincts (PEP) Scheme allows for people who have behaved in violent, disorderly, indecent or threatening ways to be excluded from declared areas. These areas include parts of Perth and Northbridge, Fremantle, Scarborough, Hillarys and Mandurah. They can be excluded for up to five years.

We monitor the PEP Scheme by overseeing the WA Police Force and the Racing, Gaming and Liquor unit within the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety. We also consult with stakeholders including local governments and peak bodies.

Our role includes reporting on the PEP Scheme after it has been operating for three years. Our report will be given to the Minister for Racing and Gaming who will make it public by tabling it in Parliament. We will finalise this report in 2026. Then we will continue to conduct regular inspections and will report to Parliament annually.