From 1 November 2021, Australian Company Directors are required by law to verify their identity with the Australian Business Registry Service (“the ABRS”) and obtain a director identification number (a “Director ID”).
How Director ID works?
A Director ID is a 15-digit identifier given to a director (or someone who intends to become a director) who has verified their identity with the ABRS.
Why do I need a Director ID?
All Directors are required by law to verify their identity with the ABRS before receiving a Director ID. This additional requirement has been primarily introduced by the Government to prevent the appointment of fictitious directors, and facilitate traceability of an individual director’s profile and their relationship with companies over time.
When should I apply?
The dates for when you need to apply, depends on when you became a director.
If you were a director before 1 November 2021, you must apply for your Director ID before 30 November 2022.
If you become a director between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022, you must apply for your Director ID within 28 days from your appointment.
If you are intending to become a director in the near future, you can apply for a Director ID up to 12 months before your appointment.
How can I apply?
The fastest way to apply for your Director ID is online. It is free to apply.
To apply online, you will require a myGovID with a “Standard” or “Strong” identity strength. If you have not set up a myGovID (using the app) then you will be required to set this up before you apply.
When applying for your Director ID, you will need to have access to additional information the ATO knows about you such as your tax file number and your residential address. You will also require information from two documents to verify your identity such as an ATO notice of assessment, your super account details, a PAYG or Centrelink Payment Summary or your bank account details.
Once you have verified your identity, your online application should take less than 5 minutes. After your application is complete, you should receive your Director ID instantly.
Can my accountant apply for my Director ID?
Unfortunately, we are unable to apply for your Director ID on your behalf. We can however assist you through the process.
For more information about how you can apply, please refer to the following links:-
Applying for your Director ID – https://www.abrs.gov.au/
How to set up your myGovID – https://www.mygovid.gov.au/
Verifying your identity – https://www.abrs.gov.au/
What next?
Once you have received your Director ID, you will need to pass it on to the record-holder of any companies of which you are a director. This may be the company secretary, another director, a contact person or an authorised agent of the company. If we are the authorised agent for your company and/or companies then please provide your Director ID to our office.
If you require any more information, or need help applying for your Director ID, then please contact Jasmin of our office on 0414 489 037 or alternatively, email any queries or concerns to jas@gpgbusinessadvisory.com.au