The department of Lands and Physical Planning is working on a new look state lease title with security features to avoid the duplication of titles. Lands and Physical Planning, John Rosso, made this announcement recently. Rosso also announced various reform initiatives that his ministry is undertaking.
This title security initiative was made possible with technical support from the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs. Through this initiative, all land records are now being scanned and stored electronically.
Lands Minister, John Rosso, stated that this is to solve the problem of missing files in the Department.
“To ensure that most of our titles are put in a safe place so that they cannot be misused or misapplied. We are now looking on a new look state lease title with security features to avoid duplication of titles.”
According to the minister, the department’s automated system will be in use starting next year. Through this system, land title transfer and mortgage registration will be processed electronically.
The minister commented that this will help increase revenue generated by the Department.
“The Lands Department last year collected approximately 27 million, in our opinion, and we know realistically, we can triple or quadruple that size and that is what we aim to do, looking forward; with a much more efficient electronic system giving out billing and collecting billing.”
One major reform the department is embarking on is the Strata Title bill. Strata Titling once introduced, will allow units and apartments in urban centres to be issued tittles. This will also encourage more high rise buildings and to maximise the use of state land.
According to the minister, a stakeholder consultation is currently underway.
The minister also highlighted the need to amend laws administered by the department to be compatible with the changing environment.
By Rayon Lakingu – EMTV News, Port Moresby
