What you need to know about the Director ID
From November 2021, the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) will legally require all Directors (or Alternate Directors) to verify their identity by registering for a Director Identification Number (Director ID).
You must apply for your Director ID yourself – no one can apply on your behalf. (Call us on 03 9325 6300 if you would like us to assist you prior to applying.)
What is a Director ID?
A Director ID is a unique 15-digit identification number allocated to a Director (or anyone who intends to become a director). Like a TFN, you only need to apply for a Director ID once. It is specific to you as an individual, and you retain your Director ID forever.
What is the purpose of the Director ID?
The Director ID is designed to improve regulation of director identities, enabling regulators to trace company-director relationships over time, and helping curb unlawful activity such the appointment of directors to companies without their knowledge or consent, fake directors registering for boards, and illegal phoenixing activity.
When do I need to apply for a Director ID?
You can apply for a Director ID from November 2021. While there are grace periods depending on when you were first appointed as a director of a company, we encourage you to apply for your Director ID now to ensure you are protected and compliant.
The following are the key registration dates. Failure to comply with these may result in fines imposed by ABRS.
Date you became a director |
Date you must apply by |
---|---|
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 | Prior to appointment |
How do I get a Director ID?
You will require the following documentation in order to apply for your Director ID:
– myGov ID. You can find instructions for setting up your myGovID here. NB, your myGovID is different to your myGov account.
– 2 x proof of identity documents.
– Tax File Number.
– Residential Address per the ATO records.
Apply for a Director ID via the application at abrs.gov.au.
By applying online you will always have your Director ID documentation at your fingertips. Call us on 03 9325 6300 if you require information about applying via hard copy or phone.
What should I do once I’ve registered for my Director ID?
- Please notify all directors of your company to register for their Director IDs (especially if they are not Matthews Steer clients) in order to ensure that your company is compliant.
- Forward the Director IDs for your company (including directors who are not Matthews Steer clients) to Matthews Steer.
About the ABRS
Part of the Modernising Business Registers program (MBR), the ABRS aims to streamline the registration and maintenance of your business information with the Government. Over the next three years, the ABRS will bring together the Australian Business Register (ABR) and more than 30 Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) registers in one place.