198Magistrates' Court may extend 3 month period

198 Magistrates' Court may extend 3 month period

(1) An inspector may apply to the Magistrates' Court within 3 months after seizing a document or other thing under this Part for an extension (not exceeding 3 months) of the period for which the inspector may retain the document or thing but so that the total period of retention does not exceed 12 months.

(2) The Magistrates' Court may order such an extension if it is satisfied that the total period of retention of the document or thing does not exceed 12 months and that retention of the document or thing is necessary—

(a) for the purpose of an investigation into whether a contravention of this Act, regulations made under this Act or a service standard has occurred; or

(b) to enable evidence of a contravention of this Act, regulations made under this Act or a service standard to be obtained for the purpose of a proceeding under this Act.

(3) The Magistrates' Court may adjourn an application to enable notice of the application to be given to any person.

Division 8—General