Law checked: 18 July 2026
This article gives general information about strip searches in New South Wales. It was checked on 18 July 2026 against Legal Aid NSW guidance and the current New South Wales 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
NSW law distinguishes a frisk search, an ordinary search and a strip search. A strip search is not a routine extension of every street search: police must have a lawful search power and satisfy the additional statutory threshold in Part 4, Division 4 of the current New South Wales legislation. Legal Aid NSW’s police-powers guide explains the practical rights and safeguards that apply.
Where and how may it occur?
Section 33 of the current New South Wales legislation requires a strip search to be conducted in a private area, not in the presence or view of unnecessary people, and not in the presence or view of a person of the opposite sex except where the Act permits it. The search must not involve examination of the body by touch or removal of more clothing than is reasonably necessary under section 33.
Children and vulnerable people
Section 33 of the current New South Wales legislation contains additional rules for a child who is at least 10 but under 18, or a person with impaired intellectual functioning, including the presence of a parent, guardian or other person unless the statutory exception applies. Section 34 states that a child under 10 must not be strip searched.
If you believe the search was improper
Do not physically resist. State that you do not consent, ask for the legal basis, and afterward record the location, privacy arrangements, names or identifiers of officers, witnesses and what occurred. Obtain legal advice promptly; a complaint can also be made using the NSW Police complaint process or to the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.
Key sources
- Legal Aid NSW — police powers and rights
- New South Wales legislation database / principal police-powers legislation
- NSW Police — 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 New South Wales.