It will soon be possible to sign and witness documents, including contracts like residential agreements, electronically under new legislation passed by the NSW Government.

Industry body REINSW has welcomed the move, calling it a "huge step forward for the property services industry".

The current Electronic Transactions Regulation 2017 (NSW) prevents the electronic witnessing of documents. If passed without amendment, the Conveyancing Legislation Amendment Bill 2018 (NSW) will enable witnesses to electronically sign documents.
 
REINSW CEO Tim McKibbin says the industry body has been vocal on the importance of this issue for many years, and it’s great to see Government has finally taken the step forward.

“This is good for agents, landlords and tenants,” Mr McKibbin said. 

“Times are changing, and technology is playing a more pivotal role in the property services industry and this amendment will bring the industry in line with other industries embracing technology and streamline business practices," he told WILLIAMS MEDIA.

“We have lobbied hard for this win and we are proud that we can provide the tools property professionals need to take advantage of the efficiencies this Bill will enable when passed.

“With digital forms and agreements, and digital signing platforms – such as REI Forms Live and DocuSign – at the ready, property managers across NSW will have the ability to develop, communicate and finalise residential tenancy agreements digitally,” Mr McKibbin said. 

The law is expected to come into effect within the next 10 days.

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