Statutory provisions authorising suppression orders that derogate from open justice must be construed narrowly. Embarrassment, damage to professional reputation, and adverse effects on mental well-being are not grounds for suppression under s 126(1)(b) of the Magistrates' Court Act 1989 (Vic). The 'administration of justice' ground is generally limited to the proceeding in which the order is made, with narrow exceptions such as blackmail cases. A suppression order cannot be justified after a hearing has concluded in open court with parties identified by name, on the basis that publication would cause embarrassment.
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