Modification History
Release |
TP Version |
Comments |
3 |
PSP12V1 |
Unit descriptor, range statement and evidence guide edited. |
2 |
PSP04V4.2. |
Layout adjusted. No changes to content. |
1 |
PSP04V4.1 |
Primary release. |
Unit Descriptor
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to conduct search and seizure activities. It includes preparing for search and seizure, implementing the search, conducting the seizure, completing post-search activities and debriefing.
Licensing, legislative, regulatory or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of endorsement.
Application of the Unit
This unit applies to individuals in a range of regulatory work environments who have powers of search and seizure under their enabling legislation.
Licensing/Regulatory Information
Not applicable.
Pre-Requisites
Not applicable.
Employability Skills Information
This unit contains employability skills.
Elements and Performance Criteria Pre-Content
Elements are the essential outcomes of the unit of competency. |
Together, performance criteria specify the requirements for competent performance. Text in bold italics is explained in the Range Statement following. |
Elements and Performance Criteria
ELEMENT |
PERFORMANCE CRITERIA |
1 . Prepare for search and seizure |
1.1 The purpose of the search is identified and powers under legislation, policies and procedures relating to the search are confirmed. 1.2 Assessment is made of where items /property/evidence might be obtained with and/or without the use of a search/seizure warrant. 1.3 Authority to search/seize is verified/obtained and intention to search is advised in accordance with legislative requirements and organisational policy and procedures. 1.4 Operational planning to address the range of requirements for a search/seizure is carried out in accordance with organisational guidelines. 1.5 Risk assessment is undertaken to ensure the search/seizure can be conducted safely in accordance with organisational guidelines, and risk management strategies are included in operational planning. 1.6 The need for assistance with the search and/or seizure is identified and organised in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. |
2 . Implement search |
2.1 Search is conducted in accordance with legislation, regulations, policies and guidelines . 2.2 Search is conducted according to standard operating procedures to ensure thorough and systematic process is used. 2.3 Equipment and/or technology and other resources are used according to organisational guidelines. 2.4 Where assistance is obtained, the search is undertaken in accordance with lead agency requirements. 2.5 Records are made of the search process, items/evidence uncovered in the search, and subsequent action. |
3 . Conduct seizure |
3.1 Alternatives to seizure are considered and subsequent action is recorded and justified against legislation, policy and regulations. 3.2 Items/property/evidence and any related information are seized or otherwise dealt with in accordance with legal requirements and standard operating procedures. 3.3 Items/property/evidence are appraised, seized, recorded and receipted in accordance with organisational procedures, legislative requirements and the rules of evidence. 3.4 Items/evidence are removed, secured and, if required, disposed of, in accordance with organisational procedures, legislative requirements and the rules of evidence. 3.5 Safety of self and others is protected in accordance with operational policy and procedures. 3.6 Seizure process is conducted in accordance with organisational and legislative requirements and complies with the rules of evidence. |
4 . Complete post-search activities |
4.1 Outcomes of search and seizure activities are recorded and disseminated to required personnel in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. 4.2 Where required, follow-up actions are identified, recorded and undertaken. 4.3 Where required, third party claims to title of seized items/property are dealt with in accordance with legislative requirements and organisational policy and procedures. 4.4 Damage to property during the search is dealt with in accordance with legislative and procedural guidelines. |
5 . Debrief search and seizure |
5.1 Feedback on own role in search/seizure is obtained regularly for continuous improvement. 5.2 Search and seizure outcomes, processes and procedures are evaluated and improvements recommended and actioned. 5.3 The value of assistance and/or joint operation relationships/teamwork is assessed and improvements are recommended and actioned in accordance with organisational policy and procedures. |
Required Skills and Knowledge
This section describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit. |
Skill requirements Look for evidence that confirms skills in:
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Knowledge requirements Look for evidence that confirms knowledge and understanding of:
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Evidence Guide
The Evidence Guide specifies the evidence required to demonstrate achievement in the unit of competency as a whole. It must be read in conjunction with the Unit descriptor, Performance Criteria, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Public Sector Training Package. |
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Critical aspects for assessment evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit |
In addition to integrated demonstration of the elements and their related performance criteria, look for evidence that confirms consistency of performance in conducting searches and seizures. This will include evidence of:
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Context of and specific resources for assessment |
Assessment must ensure access to a real or simulated workplace environment that closely resembles normal work practice and replicates the range of conditions likely to be encountered while conducting searches and seizures, including coping with difficulties, irregularities and breakdowns in routine. Access is required to resources such as:
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Method of assessment |
Assessment methods suitable for valid and reliable assessment of this competency may include, but are not limited to, a combination of 2 or more of:
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Guidance information for assessment |
Assessment methods should reflect workplace demands, such as literacy, and the needs of particular groups, such as:
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Range Statement
The Range Statement provides information about the context in which the unit of competency is carried out. The variables cater for differences between States and Territories and the Commonwealth, and between organisations and workplaces. They allow for different work requirements, work practices and knowledge. The Range Statement also provides a focus for assessment. It relates to the unit as a whole. Text in bold italics in the Performance Criteria is explained here. |
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Purpose of the search may include: |
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Items may include: |
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Evidence may include: |
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Items/property/evidence might be obtained from: |
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Authority to search/seize may include: |
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Intention to search may be advised to: |
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Operational planning may include: |
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Assistance may include: |
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Legislation, regulations, policies and guidelines may include: |
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Thorough and systematic process means search includes: |
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Equipment and resources may include: |
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Records may include: |
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Information may include: |
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Dealing with items as an alternative to physical seizure may include: |
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Legal requirements may include: |
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Securing items/evidence may include: |
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Safety of self may involve use of: |
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Unit Sector(s)
Not applicable.
Competency field
Regulatory.