Deal improves trans-Tasman criminal checks

Australia and New Zealand have agreed to share more criminal history information.

Authorities on both sides of the Tasman will now be able to request the information to vet people for jobs, training and professional registration purposes.

Australian Minister for Justice Michael Keenan said on Saturday that he and and his New Zealand counterpart Amy Adams have signed a Memorandum of Understanding following a successful trial involving Queensland authorities.

"This provides an important tool for protecting the community from people who may pose a risk," Mr Keenan said in a statement.

He said it would strengthen border control as the numbers of people travelling between the two countries increases.

Approved agencies can only check someone's criminal history with the person's informed consent.