Published 1 August 2019
Important update
From 7 November 2023, police can no longer arrest you for being intoxicated (affected by alcohol) in a public place. A public health response is now in place. Go to our page Public intoxication for more information.
From September 2023 what police and protective service officers can do to respond to a mental health crisis has changed. Visit our page When police are called because of your mental health condition for more information.
New edition coming soon
We are working on a new edition of this publication in response to legal changes.
We expect the new edition to be available around October 2024.
You can place a backorder now, or download a copy of the last edition.
About this booklet
This free booklet is a general guide to help you when you deal with the police.
It includes information for young people under the age of 18 and people with cognitive disability.
It has information about:
- when you can remain silent
- when you have to give your name and address
- getting arrested
- giving fingerprints
- being searched
- giving body samples
- move on powers
- making a complaint about police
- traffic offences
- fines.
Updated