This Part   is about accessing the register to search for data about personal property.

Anyone may access the register to search the register for data with respect to a security interest or personal property. Searches can only be undertaken by reference to certain criteria, for example the details of a grantor, or a serial number.

A search by reference to an individual grantor's details, and the use of data obtained by a search, is only authorised if the search is undertaken for a purpose stated in this Part.

A civil penalty applies in respect of unauthorised searches, and damages may be available (under section   271). In addition, an unauthorised search may be investigated under the Privacy Act   1988 .

The written search results may be used as evidence in a court or tribunal.

A person may apply to obtain:

  (a)   copies of registered financing statements and verification statements; and

  (b)   reports of certain matters relating to registered data in relation to the person.