As part of its Digital Business Plan, the government has now announced its Modernising Business Registers (MBR) program. This program will establish a new Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS), and streamline how you register, view and maintain your business information with the government.
From November 1, 2021, the ABRS will be introducing and maintaining the Director Identification Number Regime.
What is a Director Identification Number?
The Director Identification Number (Director ID) is a unique, 15 digit identifier that you will apply for once, and keep forever. This identifier prevents the use of false or fraudulent director identities with the new registry services of the ABRS.
The Director ID will make it easier to trace director relationships across different companies, as well as identify and eliminate involvement in illegal activities such as phoenixing.
Once the scheme is up and running, directors will need their Director ID to interact with any government agencies.
Your obligation
Individuals who are currently a director or will be acting as a director in the future must apply for a Director ID, based on the transitional arrangements set out below:
How do you apply for a Director ID?
- Go to the ABRS website to access the ABRS Director ID service and learn about the Director ID requirements
- Verify your identity using your myGovID credentials or create a myGovID using your smartphone and Australian identity documents. For more information visit How to set up myGovID.
- Conduct a proof of record ownership by answering two questions about the individual’s ATO record. See below for further information.
- Complete a Director ID application on the ABRS platform to receive the Director ID instantly.
You must apply for your Director ID yourself, nobody can apply on your behalf. PTP can however assist you to understand the new requirement, and if and when you need to apply, so please get in touch if you would like to chat.
