State Development and Public Works Organisation Act 1971

This section applies if—

an authorised officer damages something when exercising, or purporting to exercise, a power under this part; or

a person (the assistant) acting under the direction or authority of an authorised officer damages something.

However, this section does not apply to damage the authorised officer considers is trivial or if the officer reasonably believes—

there is no-one apparently in possession of the thing; or

the thing has been abandoned.

The authorised officer must give written notice of the damage to a person who appears to the officer to be an owner, or person in control, of the thing.

However, if for any reason it is not practicable to comply with subsection (3), the authorised officer must—

leave the notice at the place where the damage happened; and

ensure the notice is left in a conspicuous position and in a reasonably secure way.

The authorised officer may delay complying with subsection (3) or (4) if the officer reasonably suspects complying with the subsection may frustrate or otherwise hinder an investigation by the officer.

The delay may be only for so long as the authorised officer continues to have the reasonable suspicion and remains in the vicinity of the place.

If the authorised officer believes the damage was caused by a latent defect in the thing or other circumstances beyond the control of the officer or the assistant, the officer may state the belief in the notice.

The notice must state—

particulars of the damage; and

that the person who suffered the damage may claim compensation under section 157NC.