19 October 2022

Director ID campaign launch

The Albanese Government is today launching a new awareness campaign to help company directors get their director identification number (director ID) as the 30 November deadline quickly approaches. 

A director ID is a unique 15‑digit identifier that a company director will apply for once and keep forever. By allowing regulators to trace directors’ relationships with companies over time, director IDs will help prevent illegal activity and level the playing field for businesses.

Director IDs are administered by the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS), which is managed by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).

All directors of companies registered with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) will need a director ID and must apply by the 30 November deadline. Directors of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations may have additional time to apply.

The new awareness campaign will feature both widespread communications and targeted outreach to ensure all directors are aware of their obligations. 

Some people may not realise they are directors, so the campaign will target those that run small businesses, self‑managed superannuation funds, charities, Not‑for‑profits, and even some sporting clubs.

The fastest way to apply is online at abrs.gov.au. The director ID will be issued instantly once the application is complete. Its free to apply and directors must apply themselves, as they are required to verify their identity. It is this robust identification process that will help prevent the use of false and fraudulent director identities.

More information about director IDs including who must apply is available on the ABRS website.

Quotes attributable to Stephen Jones, Assistant Treasurer:

“Director ID will help create a fairer business environment and level the playing field for businesses by preventing the use of false director identities to engage in fraud or phoenix behaviour.”

“By applying for your director ID, you’re helping to protect the community including small businesses and workers from those doing the wrong thing.”

“The fastest way to apply for your director ID is online. Once you’ve verified your identity with myGovID, you can complete your application online and your director ID will be issued instantly.”

“Interestingly, some people don’t actually realise they are a director of a company. If you run a company that is a small business, self‑managed super fund, a not‑for‑profit or even a large sporting club, it’s quite likely that you’re a director, and you’ll need to apply for your director ID.”

“Don’t leave it to the last minute – if you’re a company director you must apply by 30 November – so make sure you make time to get it done.”