Shopping bag checks
There is no specific law about whether your bag can be checked when you come in or out of a shop.
However, the Retail Traders' Association of WA has developed an advisory code of practice that covers bag checks.
This code says that retailers must display signs if they intend to carry out bag checks.
If a store has such a bag check sign, when you enter you are agreeing to a possible bag check.
A retailer cannot use any force to search your bag, but if they suspect you have stolen something they may detain you until police arrive.
They must be quite certain an offence has occurred because, if you are wrongfully detained, you can consider legal action against the shop owners.