What is a director identification number?
Company directors can now obtain a unique identification number to prevent the possibility of director identity fraud.
A director identification number is an identifying number available to all directors of a:
- Company
- Registered Australian body
- Registered foreign company, or
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation.
Company directors are now required, by law, to apply for a director identification number and the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) is responsible for delivering the director ID initiative.
Director IDs were officially launched in Australia in November 2021 – with 96% of applications made digitally and 70,000 IDs issued in the opening month alone.
The ABRS has developed an instructional video to help company directors apply online.
“A director identification number is a unique identifier available to all directors of a company, registered Australian bod
How do directors apply for a director identification number?
Directors can apply for their director ID using the ABRS website.
Before applying, directors will need to have some identity documents ready and it is a good idea to firstly complete the following steps.
1. Collate identity documents, including:
- An individual Australian tax file number (TFN)
- Proof of your residential address – as recorded by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
- Answers to two questions based on details the Government will know about you from bank statements, an ATO notice of assessment, your superannuation account, a shareholding dividend statement, a Centrelink statement or a PAYG summary.
2. Set up a myGovID (if you don’t already have one).
To do this you will need to prove your identity by providing:
- A drivers licence
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Medicare card, or
- Visa.
You can then complete the application process online.
If you are unable to utilise the online application you can contact the ABRS to complete the application manually.
I have a director's ID - now what?
Once you receive the director identification number documentation you will need to find a safe place to keep it.
Your director ID can be shared with your accountant, company secretary, ASIC registered agent or tax professional.
In the future, it is expected that the ASIC companies register will be transitioned to the ABRS, and when this occurs, director IDs will be linked to the companies of the director.
Keep up to date with any changes that affect director ID holders through the ABRS website.
“You only ever need to apply once — your director ID stays with you forever, even if you change companies or stop being a director.”
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About the author
Marius Fourie - Director & Business Advisor
As Director and Business Advisor, Marius uses his accounting expertise and empathetic skills to work directly with business owners and help them feel at ease with their finances.
Marius saw a common need in clients that just wasn’t being met by accounting providers.
That need was for clear, open communication and streamlined accounting services that didn’t come padded out with any unnecessary features.
Business owners just don’t have time to compare different accounting firms to see which one has the best packages with the best inclusions (many of which they would pay for but never use).
Key Takeaways
Director IDs Are Mandatory
If you’re a company director, having a Director ID is not optional — it’s a legal requirement under Australian law.
One Director ID for Life
Your Director ID remains with you permanently, even if you change companies, cease to be a director, or take on new directorships.
You Must Apply Personally
The individual director must complete applications to verify their identity — advisers can guide you, but can’t apply for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Director Identification Number (Director ID)?
A Director ID is a unique identifier issued to company directors to help prevent identity fraud and illegal phoenix activity. Once issued, it stays with you for life.
Who needs to apply for a Director ID?
Anyone who is a director of a company, including directors of corporate trustees of SMSFs, family trusts or trading companies, is required to have a Director ID.
When do directors need to apply for a Director ID?
Application deadlines depend on when you were appointed as a director. Existing directors were required to apply by a set deadline, while new directors must apply before or shortly after their appointment.
How do I apply for a Director ID?
Directors must apply for their own Director ID through the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS). It can’t be applied for by an accountant or third party on your behalf.
What happens if I don’t apply for a Director ID?
Failing to apply on time can result in penalties and fines. Providing false information or applying for multiple Director IDs can also attract serious consequences.
Who needs a Director Identification Number (Director ID) in Australia, and why is it required?
North Advisory explains that a Director Identification Number (Director ID) is a unique ID issued to company directors to help prevent director identity fraud. It’s required for directors of a company, registered Australian body, registered foreign company, or an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation, and directors must apply for it as part of their legal obligations.
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