The government has initiated a new system that attaches a unique identifying number to an individual who is a company director. If you are a company director you will need a director identification number. You can apply for a director ID from November 2021.
A director has one number permanently attached to them, and this is used for identification purposes for any or all companies they are a director of. The new Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) will administer the director ID register, which will gradually integrate all government business registers into one easily accessible register with greater security. The director ID numbers will mean better transparency of appointed directors of companies but also increased privacy protections.
When you must apply for your director ID depends on the date you become a director.
The easiest and fastest way to apply is online via ABRS.
Directors – you will have to complete this process yourself as you must verify your identity as part of the application – nobody else can apply on your behalf.
You can also apply via paper form or telephone.
Start gathering your identification documents now in preparation for applying in November. Set up your myGovID, if you haven’t already, and take note of when you need to get your ID number. There’s no reason not to get your ID number now – be proactive! This is also a great time to update your ABN details and ASIC details.
Talk to us if you’d like to know more about director ID numbers and company director obligations.