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.
The DIN will provide accountability and traceability of a director’s relationships over time, across all companies and will provide information on a director’s involvement in what may be repeated unlawful activity, including illegal phoenix activity.
Key points
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A DIN will be a legal requirement for all new and existing directors to hold.
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A DIN is a unique 15-digit numerical identifier that an existing or intending director will apply for once and keep forever.
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Only one DIN will be issued to everyone once their identity has been verified.
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The issued DIN will remain the same even if that person stops being a company director, changes their name or moves overseas.
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This will apply to directors of a company, body corporate or corporation.
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It is not applicable to secretaries.
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Alternative directors are also required to apply for a DIN.
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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 need to have a director ID will depend on when you were appointed as a director.
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Corporations Act 2001 (Corporations Act)
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Appointment of directors
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When they need to apply
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Existing directors appointed on or before 31 October 2021
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New directors appointed between 1 November 2021 to 4 April 2022 (inclusive)
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Within 28 days of appointment
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New directors appointed from 5 April 2022 |
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Corporations (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) Act 2006 (CATSI Act)
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Appointment of directors
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When they need to apply
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Existing directors appointed on or before 31 October 2022
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By 30 November 2023
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New directors appointed after 1 November 2022 |
Must apply before appointment* |
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For now, there will be no change to how a company is registered, therefore there is currently no requirement for you to include the directors ID number on your company application or company change of details form (484, etc).