Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (MLETR)

We are considering options for law reform to help support paperless trade through potential legislation aligned with the UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (also known as the MLETR).

Public consultation to inform options for implementing legislation aligned with the MLETR in Australia closed on 28 October 2024. For more information about the consultation and to read public responses, visit our consultation website.

The MLETR contains rules which, if adopted into domestic law, would allow industry to digitise key trade records like bills of lading, and would give these records the same legal standing as equivalent paper-based records.

For more information about the MLETR, including a copy of the text, visit: UNCITRAL Model Law on Electronic Transferable Records (2017) | United Nations Commission On International Trade Law.

This project started in January 2024 and is part of a broader government commitment to simplify Australia's cross-border trade environment.

Find out more about whole-of-government simplified trade reforms.