Attorney-General Philip Ruddock

Attorney-General Philip Ruddock today expressed disappointment in the failure of the states and territories to cooperate in efforts to create a national electronic conveyancing system.

"The same jealousies that resulted in different rail-gauge widths in the 19th century are sabotaging a national electronic conveyancing system in the 21st century," Mr Ruddock said.

"I have been pressing for the states and territories to focus on the need for a national electronic conveyancing system for some time. A national electronic conveyancing system would remove red tape for business and lower costs for home buyers."

The Victorian Government has developed a pilot electronic conveyancing system.

"It is now being reported that Victoria has not yet shared its system with the other states to see if it can be used nationally," Mr Ruddock said.

"As a result, the private sector has lost confidence in the ability of the states and territories to deliver a national system."

"I am extremely disappointed that the failure of states and territories to cooperate has undermined such an important project."

The Australian Government has monitored the development of NECS through the Standing Committee of Attorneys-General (SCAG).

"While I recognise that NECS involves a range of ministers, I am disappointed that the Victorian Attorney-General has been unable to provide leadership on such an important national issue."

"I call on the states and territories to work together in the national interest and make a national electronic conveyancing system a reality."

This is a media release issued by AG Phil Ruddock 3/9/07