Technical changes introduced during Covid are set to stay.
Legal Documents: The remote witnessing of important legal documents such as wills, statutory declarations and affidavits over video will become a permanent feature of the NSW legal landscape.
Attorney General Mark Speakman said legislation to cement temporary measures into law has passed both Houses of NSW Parliament.
“The NSW Government introduced the remote witnessing scheme in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to help keep the wheels of commerce moving and allow people to manage personal legal arrangements safely,” Mr Speakman said.
“After a successful trial period of 18 months, we’re pleased to be extending these effective and secure provisions to make life easier for people in the future.”
Virtual Council Meetings modernise future for Council:
New changes introduced are set to revolutionise the way NSW council meetings can be run as they open up to an online platform providing more flexibility for all.
“Councils will now have the option to allow councillors to be present for official meetings by audio-visual link if they can’t attend in person because of illness, disability, caring and work responsibilities or other reasons agreed to by council.” Stated Mrs Hancock, Minister for Local Government.
As well as boosting opportunities for people from diverse backgrounds, Mrs Hancock said the changes allow councils to meet entirely remotely during natural disasters and public health emergencies.