Director Identification Number – What you need to know

The Australian Government has introduced new obligations for all company directors to obtain a personal Director Identification Number.

This is a unique 15-digit identifier that you will keep forever, this includes when moving companies, stop being a director, name change or move interstate or overseas. This ID number will assist the Government in creating a fairer business environment by improving data integrity, building confidence in knowing who the directors of a company are and preventing the use of false or fraudulent identities.

It is mandatory to obtain a Director ID Number, failing to do so can result in civil and criminal penalties.

Who needs to get a Director ID Number?

If you are an officer of the following:

• A company that is a registered Australian body or a registered foreign company in the Corporation Acts 2000
• An Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation that is registered under the Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006.

An officer is a person who is appointed as a director or an alternate director who is acting in that capacity, this does not apply to Sole Traders.

I am already a director, when must I apply by?

If you were appointed as a director on or before 31st of October 2021 then you have until the 30th of November 2022 to secure your ID number.

If you became or are becoming a director from 1st of November 2021 to 4th of April 2022, you must apply within 28 days of your appointment.

What if I am going to become a director later down the track?

From April 5th, 2022, you must get your Director ID Number before your appointment. This is to make the onboarding process as easy as possible.

How do I apply?

Applications are free and are available to directors within Australia and overseas. The application process only takes a few minutes by applying online using the myGovID app. Once the online application form is completed your Director ID Number will be issued instantly.

Can’t apply online? Applications are also available by phoning 13 62 50 and by paper if required.

Do I need to submit any documentation with my application?

Yes! To make sure the application process is as smooth as possible, you will need to have the following documents ready, (your name must match on all documents).

One (x1) Primary Document, which can include:

• Full Australian Birth Certificate (extracts and commemorative certificates are not acceptable)
• Australian Passport
• Australian citizenship certificate or extract from a Register of Citizenship by Descent
• Foreign Passport

Two (x2) Secondary Documents:

• Medicare Card
• Australian driver’s license or Australian learner’s permit – this must show your photo and signature, and the address on the card must match the details on your application.

Plus, Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Information:

• Tax File Number
• Residential address as recorded by the ATO
• Notice of Assessment (issue date and reference number)
• Bank Details or superannuation details as recorded by the ATO

If you are applying in writing using the paper version of the application form, you will need to attach certified copies of the primary and secondary documents.

While no one can apply on your behalf, the friendly team at Whitson Dawson can assist you with the process.

Simply phone the office on (07) 4957 2985 or email business@whitsondawson.com.au

Remember, managing your finances doesn’t have to be stressful! We’re here to help.

Until next time,

Whitson Dawson – Your local accounting experts