"As indicated in previous sessions, the International Bureau...

"As indicated in previous sessions, the International Bureau does not see the purpose of this proposal as reducing the professional role of the national agent in respect of national phase entry. The system seeks to eliminate the unnecessary formalities of transcribing existing information to and from national forms, with its inherent risk of introducing errors. However, on a substantive level, it focuses on assisting communication and collaboration between an instructing (international) agent and a national agent. By having a secure common platform where both partners are able to see the full international phase file as well as the draft documents and information proposed for use in entry to any particular national phase before they are submitted, the risks of misunderstandings are reduced". Sourced from WIPO PCT/WG/9/24

Patent application in Australia are supported by rights and privileges granted exclusively to Australian patent attorneys. So far it seems national agents are still required when ePCT national phase is implemented unless ofcourse IP Australia waives the exclusive rights offered to Australian attorneys. Your thoughts?