Are digital signatures required for Australian government tenders and contracts?

The use of digital signatures in Australian government contracts is governed by the Electronic Transactions Act 1999 (Cth) and state equivalents, such as the Electronic Transactions Act 2000 (NSW). These laws validate electronic signatures provided they meet reliability and authentication standards. Government agencies often align with the Digital Transformation Agency's guidelines to ensure compliance and security.

Yes, digital signatures can replace traditional handwritten signatures in most Australian government procurement processes, as long as they comply with the reliability requirements outlined in the Electronic Transactions Act 1999 (Cth). For high-value or sensitive contracts, agencies may require advanced electronic signatures or additional verification steps to mitigate risks.