Umm they do that in Queensland too...
Oh and on a side note I was breath tested the other week, was a RANDOM one setup just outside the valley, turning left to go to Bowen Hills (where that roundabout USED to be).
Anyway, about to let me through when the officer heard the exhaust...was about to go over the car until the Sgt said, forget it, looking at him its all legal (and yes it is, my mechanic does most of the QT inspections for Redcliffe and surrounding areas cause he knows the rules better than them...
So look like a nerd and you should be right (note I am glad I was still in work attire), but yes they do have the right to go over the car anytime.
Note, if you are PARKED in a car park then they CANNOT search your car without a reason. I had an incident a couple of years back at the Hypermarket at Aspley,long story, but in the end, the police asked me to pop my bonnet, I refused, they called QT, QT turned up 2 hours later (this is for a 2000 SSS with an exhuast wheels and lowered mind you), while two cops checked my REAR tyres and commented I must have been doing skids.
QT turned up (after a large Big Mac meal, thanks Wayne) and told the officer he was being rediculous, took one look at the car and told me to go home. Oh and also commented to the GENIUS ones looking at the rear tyres that it was infact FWD...the look on their faces was priceless.
The cops FOLLOWED me home, I sent a nice letter with the officers details and a complete detailed explanation of the events, including times, names,comments to the Boondall office, and he got nice desk duty for 3 months as my story matched the taped conversation...just so happens I also have friends there too, thats how I found out he got 3 months pushing a pen!!!