What major legislation governs police powers in NSW?

The Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act 2002 NSW is the major legislation that governs police powers in New South Wales. This comprehensive framework outlines the authorities and responsibilities of police officers, including their powers to arrest individuals, conduct searches, and use force when necessary. The Act is designed to ensure that police powers are exercised appropriately and within legal boundaries, thus balancing law enforcement needs with the protection of individual rights.

This legislation also includes guidelines for various police operations, such as how officers should manage public order situations and the procedures they must follow for questioning and detaining suspects. By establishing clear protocols and limitations on police powers, the Act aims to uphold civil liberties while enabling effective policing.

Other options, while relevant to the legal landscape in NSW, do not primarily focus on police powers. The Crimes Act 1900 pertains to criminal offenses and penalties, the Road Transport (Safety and Traffic Management) Act addresses road-related matters, and the Evidence Act 1995 deals with the laws governing evidentiary matters in court proceedings. None of these provide the overarching framework for police powers that the Law Enforcement (Powers and Responsibilities) Act offers.