The introduction of the director identification number (director ID) regime will be the first function of the new Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS).
What is a Director ID:
A director identification number (director ID) is a unique identifier you need to apply for once and will keep forever. Directors need to apply for their own director ID. It’s free to apply.
It will help prevent the use of false or fraudulent director identities.
Who needs it:
You need a director ID if you’re an eligible officer of:
- a company, a registered Australian body or a registered foreign company under the Corporations Act 2001 (Corporations Act)
- an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation registered under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act).
An eligible officer is a person who is appointed as:
- a director
- an alternate director who is acting in that capacity.
Dates
Date you become a director | Date you must apply |
On or before 31 October 2021 | By 30 November 2022 |
Between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022 | Within 28 days of appointment |
From 5 April 2022 | Before appointment |
What you need to do:
If you are eligible for a Director ID you will need to take the following steps.
Step One: Set up your myGovID
Step Two: Gather your documents – Verify your identity | Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS)
You will need to have some information for the ATO to confirm your ID.
Step Three: Complete your application
Once you have a standard or strong identity strength with myGovID, from Nov 1st 2021 you can log into the ABR and apply for your Director ID.
*If you can’t get a myGovID, the best way to apply will depend on your situation.
Apply by phone
From November 2021, you can apply by phone if you have:
- an Australian tax file number (TFN)
- the documents you need to verify your identity.
Apply with a paper form
If you can’t apply online or over the phone, you can apply using a paper form. This is a slower process and you will also need to provide certified copies of your documents to verify your identity.
A downloadable application form will be available from the ABR in November 2021.
Helpful Resources:
General Info: Director identification number | Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS)
How to apply: How to apply for your director ID | Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS)
Verify your ID: Verify your identity | Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS)