Trans-Tasman info sharing deal signed

The New Zealand and Australian governments have signed a deal to share information about people being deported across the Tasman.

The agreement means New Zealand authorities will have access to better information about offenders who are being sent back to New Zealand, such as their criminal record, summary or offences and case history.

"A key issue when dealing with offenders being deported back to New Zealand has been obtaining reliable information about the individual and their current risk profile," Justice Minister Amy Adams said.

"This information gap has been one of the barriers to ensuring that New Zealand agencies can effectively manage the risk of offenders deported back to New Zealand.

"By having a fuller picture about the backgrounds of offenders who return to New Zealand, we will be in a stronger position to monitor and supervise those who pose a serious threat to the public."