The Australian Government has announced the introduction of a new mandatory Director Identification Number (DIN/director ID) as part of the Modernising Business Registry (MBR) Program. The roll-out will start from November 2021.

Key points

• A DIN will be a legal requirement for all new and existing directors to hold.
• A DIN is a unique 15 digit numerical identifier that an existing or intending director will apply for once and keep forever.
• Only one DIN will be issued to each individual, once their identity has been verified.
• The issued DIN will remain the same even if that persons stops being a company director, changes their name or moves overseas.
• This will apply to directors of a company, body corporate or corporation.
• It is not applicable to secretary’s.
• Alternative director’s are also required to apply for a DIN.
• Directors must apply for their direct ID themselves. No one can apply on their behalf, including registered agents and accountants.

How to apply for a DIN

Directors will need to apply online at https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number/apply-director-identification-number, from November 2021 and will require a MyGovID (an app you download on your smart device, different from MyGov) to complete the application process.

For information on how to setup a MyGovID please go to https://www.mygovid.gov.au/set-up

When will a director need to apply for a DIN?

Transitional arrangements will allow directors to become familiar with the new requirement. When you must apply for your director ID depends on the date you become a director.

Corporations Act directors

For further information on who needs to apply and when please click here.
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