December 2022 Update: The ABRS announced an extension to 14 December 2022 for directors to apply for their Director ID. Please apply for your Director ID now, to avoid potential fines and penalties.

The introduction of Director Identification Number (Director ID) on 1 November 2021 requires all directors of Australian companies to register for a unique identification number that they will keep for life (much like a tax file number).

The Director ID is being rolled out by the Australian Business Registry Service (ABRS) to prevent the use of false or fraudulent director identities.

Failure to apply for a Director ID can be enforced under the Corporations Act 2001 resulting in criminal penalties of up to $13,200 and civil penalties up to $1,100,000. 

Please click here to watch this 3 minute video that explains what the Director ID is and how to apply for one.

If you believe there may be a discrepancy in your identity between any of the following:

• ASIC
• ATO
• Physical ID (Driver’s Licence, Passport)

We recommend that you resolve the discrepancy prior to applying for your MyGov ID and/or Director ID. For example, the ATO may or may not have record of your middle name, or there may be a discrepancy in the spelling on your driver’s licence and what ASIC have on file.
 
You are welcome to go ahead and apply for your Director ID now, however, existing directors have until 30 November 2022 to attain their director ID. If we act as your company ASIC agent, we will be reminding you at the time we prepare your ASIC annual company statement to apply for your Director ID.
When applying for your Director ID; please ensure you print or record it when it appears on your screen as a notification letter will not be sent to you. You will need to notify us of your Director ID so we can record it on our system.

Should you have any questions about the Director ID or would like to notify us of your Director ID please contact Sharon Lee.