What authority does the Police Act 1990 (NSW) provide to police officers?

The Police Act 1990 (NSW) grants police officers broad powers to enforce laws and maintain order. This legislation provides the framework within which police can operate, detailing their responsibilities and the authorities they possess to perform their duties effectively. It empowers law enforcement to manage public safety, prevent crime, conduct investigations, and ensure that laws are upheld.

This authority is fundamental for police officers as it allows them to respond to incidents, execute arrests, conduct searches, and utilize various tools necessary for maintaining public order. The Act underpins the structure and operations of police in New South Wales, ensuring they can act decisively and within the legal boundaries set by the legislation.

Other choices, such as the regulation of traffic offenses, while important, fall under specific provisions of the law rather than encapsulating the overall authority provided to police. Similarly, management of social services and oversight of criminal victims' rights pertain to different organizational roles and responsibilities that are not the primary focus of the Police Act 1990 (NSW), which is centered on law enforcement powers. Thus, the broad powers to enforce laws and maintain order that the Police Act provides is what makes this option the correct answer.