State launches EOI for partial Landgate sale

The state government has hit a key milestone in the partial privatisation of Landgate, seeking a private sector operator to undertake automated land titling transactions.

Applications for expressions of interest are now open until February 12, while the government said in a statement it expected potential service providers to deliver services for a 40- to 50-year term.

Under the new arrangement, existing privacy and security protections for property owners regarding land titles will be unchanged.

Privatised services will be subject to capped pricing and minimum service standards set by the government.

Treasurer Ben Wyatt said the release of the EOI marked a major milestone for the partial privatisation, and was an example of the government's commitment to repairing the state's finances.

"The market is well aware of Landgate's industry leading technology and now has the opportunity to express interest in delivering certain automated services in return for an upfront payment to the state," Mr Wyatt said.

It is expected a service provider will be appointed in late 2019.

The state government previously rejected a full sale of Landgate, to retain ownership of WA’s land titles register.