Law checked: 18 July 2026
This article gives general information about mobile phones in Australian Capital Territory. It was checked on 18 July 2026 against Legal Aid ACT guidance and the current Australian Capital Territory legislation. Police powers depend on the facts, the particular statutory power being used and whether any special order, warrant or declared area applies.
Short answer
Seizing a phone, searching its stored data and compelling a person to disclose a passcode are legally distinct steps. Police may seize a device under a warrant or another statutory power, but authority to examine data or require assistance depends on the terms of the warrant and the legislation used. See Legal Aid ACT information about searches and the current Australian Capital Territory legislation.
Ask what power is being used
Do not delete, alter or remotely wipe material after police indicate it is evidence; that can create separate legal problems. Ask whether the phone is being seized, whether there is a warrant, what it authorises, and whether police say you are legally compelled to provide a passcode. Do not guess about the scope of a document you have not read.
Get advice before unlocking
Whether refusal is lawful can turn on the exact statutory notice, warrant or order. Ask for a copy of any written authority and seek urgent criminal-law advice before deciding whether to provide access. Legal Aid ACT search guidance explains general search powers, while the current Australian Capital Territory legislation supplies the enforceable rules.
Key sources
- Legal Aid ACT — police powers and rights
- Australian Capital Territory legislation database / principal police-powers legislation
- ACT Policing — complaints and feedback
Important
This is general educational information, not legal advice. Police powers can arise under laws not discussed here and may change after the checked date. If an encounter is happening now, prioritise safety. If you are arrested, charged, injured or unsure whether you must comply, obtain advice from a lawyer or the legal-aid service in Australian Capital Territory.