Skip to content

What Is PEXA? A Guide for NSW Property Buyers and Sellers

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • PEXA Digitises Property Settlements. PEXA replaces traditional paper-based settlement processes with an electronic platform that allows authorised subscribers to prepare and lodge land registry documents, transfer settlement funds and complete property transactions electronically.
  • NSW Mandates E-Conveyancing. In New South Wales, most land dealings must now be lodged electronically through an Electronic Lodgment Network Operator (ELNO). PEXA is one of the electronic platforms used by solicitors, licensed conveyancers, financial institutions and other authorised subscribers.
  • Electronic Settlements Are Faster and More Efficient. Electronic conveyancing allows documents, funds and land registry dealings to be coordinated digitally, reducing many of the delays and risks associated with traditional paper settlements.

Reviewed: 20 August 2026


In today’s digital world, many traditional processes are being transformed through technology—and real estate is no exception. One of the most significant advancements in Australian property transactions is PEXA, short for Property Exchange Australia.

Whether you’re buying your first home or selling an investment property in New South Wales (NSW), understanding how PEXA works can help you feel more confident during settlement. This blog gives a clear overview of PEXA and a simple guide tailored for NSW buyers and sellers.

 

What is PEXA?

PEXA (Property Exchange Australia) is an Electronic Lodgment Network (ELN) that allows property transactions such as buying, selling and refinancing to be completed electronically. It enables authorised subscribers to prepare electronic dealings, transfer settlement funds and lodge relevant documents with the land registry.

In NSW, land dealings are now generally lodged electronically through an approved Electronic Lodgment Network Operator (ELNO). PEXA is one of the platforms available in NSW, alongside Sympli.

Key Features:

  • Electronic preparation and signing of land registry documents by authorised subscribers

  • Electronic transfer and disbursement of settlement funds

  • Electronic lodgment of property transfer documents with NSW Land Registry Services

  • Secure online collaboration between conveyancers, solicitors, financial institutions and other parties to the transaction

Electronic conveyancing is mandatory for most NSW land dealings, with PEXA being one of the electronic networks through which authorised subscribers can complete transactions.

 

Why PEXA Matters For You

For buyers, PEXA allows the transfer and associated land registry documents to be lodged electronically as part of settlement, helping the registration process proceed efficiently once settlement has been completed.

For sellers, settlement funds are disbursed electronically in accordance with the settlement instructions. Funds may reach nominated accounts on settlement day, although the timing of cleared funds can depend on the receiving financial institution.

Electronic conveyancing also reduces many of the risks and delays associated with handling paper documents, bank cheques and physical settlement processes.

 

PEXA Guide for NSW Buyers and Sellers

Below is a simplified step-by-step guide on how PEXA can form part of the conveyancing process for buyers and sellers in New South Wales:

 

For Buyers

  1. Engage a Conveyancer or Solicitor: Engage a licensed conveyancer or solicitor who is authorised to complete electronic conveyancing transactions. They will manage the legal documentation and electronic settlement process on your behalf.
  1. Identity and Finance Checks: Your conveyancer will complete the required verification of identity and client authorisation processes. If you’re obtaining a home loan, your lender will also need to be ready to participate in the electronic settlement.
  1. Review Settlement Figures: Your conveyancer will confirm the amount required at settlement, including transfer duty, settlement adjustments and other amounts relevant to the transaction.
  2. PEXA Workspace Preparation: The buyer’s representative, seller’s representative and participating financial institutions work together within the electronic workspace to prepare the relevant documents, financial settlement information and agreed settlement date.
  1. Electronic Documents: Your conveyancer or solicitor prepares and electronically signs relevant land registry documents as an authorised subscriber. You may also need to sign client authorisations, lender documents or other documents required for the transaction.
  2. Settlement Day: On settlement day, settlement funds are disbursed electronically and the relevant transfer documents are lodged with NSW Land Registry Services. Once settlement has completed, arrangements can be made for the buyer to take possession in accordance with the Contract for Sale.

 

For Sellers

  1. Appoint a Conveyancer or Solicitor: Engage a licensed conveyancer or solicitor to manage the sale, prepare the required legal documentation and represent you through the electronic settlement process.
  1. Prepare the Contract for Sale: Your conveyancer or solicitor will prepare the Contract for Sale and required disclosure documents before the property is marketed. The Contract itself is separate from the electronic land registry dealings that are later prepared for settlement.
  1. Mortgage Discharge (If Applicable): If there is a mortgage over the property, your lender will need to be notified so the mortgage can be discharged as part of the electronic settlement. Your conveyancer or solicitor will coordinate with the lender as required.
  1. Prepare for Settlement: Your representative works with the buyer’s representative and any participating financial institutions to finalise settlement figures, adjustments, documents and payment directions.
  1. Settlement: On settlement day, funds are disbursed electronically in accordance with the settlement instructions and the transfer and any related land registry dealings are lodged electronically.

Common Questions

Is PEXA safe?
PEXA uses security controls including digital certificates, multi-factor authentication and verification processes designed for electronic property transactions. Your conveyancer or solicitor will also follow identity verification and client authorisation requirements before completing electronic dealings on your behalf.

Do I need to use PEXA myself?
No. In NSW, electronic land dealings are lodged by authorised subscribers such as licensed conveyancers, solicitors and financial institutions. Your conveyancer or solicitor manages the electronic platform and lodgment process on your behalf.

Is there an extra cost?
Yes. PEXA charges transaction service fees that vary depending on the type of dealing and the number of titles involved. As at 1 July 2026, the PEXA fee for a single-title Transfer with Financial Settlement in NSW is $146.30 including GST. This is separate from NSW Land Registry Services lodgment fees and other costs associated with the conveyancing transaction.

 

Final Thoughts

PEXA has helped modernise the way property transactions are completed in NSW. Electronic conveyancing allows settlement funds, land registry documents and the parties involved in a transaction to be coordinated through a secure digital process.

As a buyer or seller, you do not need to operate PEXA yourself. Your licensed conveyancer or solicitor manages the electronic conveyancing process on your behalf while guiding you through the broader requirements of your property transaction.

If you are buying or selling property in Sydney, our Sydney conveyancers can assist with contract reviews, electronic conveyancing and the settlement process from start to finish.

 

📞 Get in touch with Coutts today to ensure your next move is informed, compliant, and future-ready.

Schedule an Appointment Now


ABOUT KAY VITOGIANNIS:

Kay Vitogiannis

Kay joined the Coutts team in May 2021 working as a Licensed Conveyancer within our Property & Conveyancing team Narellan.

Kay has over 20 years of experience in the Legal industry. She began her journey in CBD Conveyancing firms as a secretary and attained her Advanced Diploma in Conveyancing in December 2010.


For further information please don’t hesitate to contact:

Kay Vitogiannis
Licensed Conveyancer
info@couttslegal.com.au
1300 268 887

Contact Coutts today.

This blog is merely general and non specific information on the subject matter and is not and should not be considered or relied on as legal advice. Coutts is not responsible for any cost, expense, loss or liability whatsoever in relation to this blog, including all or any reliance on this blog or use or application of this blog by you.

Contact Us