The predominant purpose test from Williams v Spautz applies to applications to discharge examination summonses under s.596B of the Corporations Act 2001. Where a liquidator already possesses a wealth of information about the company's case from affidavits, interviews, and pleadings, and the examination cannot advance the liquidator's knowledge other than by revealing how witnesses cope with cross-examination, the predominant purpose may be inferred to be an impermissible dress rehearsal of cross-examination. The focus of the improper purpose inquiry is on the liquidator's own purpose, not the motives of those funding the liquidation.
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