Outcry over strip-search of 12-year-old girl

The strip-search of a 12-year-old girl by police in Tasmania has caused an outcry, with the state's top child protection official demanding an explanation.

Police twice strip-searched the girl last week at a Hobart house where drugs and cash were found.

The child's mother told local media the incident had left her daughter in tears, while sexual assault services and lawyers have condemned the action.

Commissioner for Children Aileen Ashford said she would be seeking a full explanation from Police Minister David O'Byrne when she met him on Tuesday.

"At this stage, I am only aware of the facts as reported by the various media outlets," Ms Ashford said in a statement.

"After I have received a full briefing from the minister and other stakeholders I will make further comment."

Tasmania Police said on Monday a review would be conducted into the incident.

"I will be receiving a report in relation to the matter and will base my review on facts, not speculation," Deputy Commissioner Scott Tilyard said.

"The commissioner will be briefing the minister on the outcome of our review once the full circumstances are known."

The searches were carried out by two female police officers in the presence of the child's mother.

Tasmania's Sexual Assault Support Service said the process needed to be reviewed and strip searches should only be carried out on children in extreme circumstances.

Australian Lawyers Alliance spokesman Greg Barns said the the practice was unacceptable.

Mr O'Byrne has said clear laws are in place to deal with strip searches on young people and he is awaiting a briefing from police.

-AAP