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Need to apply for a Directors Identification Number (DID) asap
I am writing to let you know about new legislation that requires all directors of Australian companies to have a director identification number (DID).
You will need to apply for a DID if you are a company director. This includes if you are the director of your SMSF corporate trustee or family trust.
You will also need to apply for a DID if you are acting in the capacity of an alternate director, even if you are appointed for a specified period or a temporary basis.
A DID is a unique 15-digit identifier that a director will apply for once and will keep forever. A director can only have one DID that they must use for all companies.
The purpose of introducing DIDs is to prevent the use of fictitious director identities, assist regulators trace directors’ relationships with companies and better identify directors involved in unlawful activity.
This will go a long way to better identify and deter directors from unlawful activities.
https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number
When you must apply for a DIN depends on the date you became a director.
The table below summarises the key dates of when you need to apply for a DID.
| The date you were appointed a director | The date you must apply for a DID |
| On or before 31 October 2021 | By 30 November 2022 |
| Between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022 | Within 28 days of the appointment |
| From 5 April 2022 | Before appointment |
How do I apply for a DID?
Unfortunately, we are unable to apply for a DID on your behalf. You must apply for your own DID to verify your identity. We can however assist you by advising you of the steps and timelines involved.
Firstly you will need to visit the ABRS website (abrs.gov.au).
What is the ABRS?
Is a new service introduced by the Australian Government to combine the existing Australian Business Register (ABR) – use to record and lookup ABN’s details with over 30 Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) register into one streamlined fully linked register under the ABRS
This process is expected in September 2023.
It is expected that the ABRS will replace ABR & ASIC over time.
DIN is the first service to be delivered by the ABRS.
The Registrar may decide that a particular person or class of persons are not eligible officers.
Click on “Director identification number” near the top of the homepage:
Step 1 – Set up a myGovID on your mobile phone
You will need a myGovID with a standard or strong identity strength using two Australian identity documents, such as:
If you already have a myGovID go to Step 2.
Tip – myGovID is different from myGov
myGovID is an app. You download the myGovID app to your smart device. It lets you prove who you are and log in to a range of government online services, including myGov.
myGov is an account. Your myGov account lets you link to and access online services provided by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), Centrelink, Medicare and more.
Step 2 – Gather the documents required for identification
You will need to have some information the ATO knows about you when you apply for your DID.
You will need to complete a ‘proof of ATO record ownership’ (PORO) by providing:
Examples of the documents you can use to verify your identity include:
Step 3 – Complete your application
Once you have a myGovID with a standard or strong identity strength, and information to verify your identity, you can log in and apply for your DID:
Your myGovID details and ATO details will be prefilled and all you need to do is enter your place of birth, postal address, mobile number, and any former names and complete the declaration.
The application process should take less than 5 minutes and once complete, you will instantly receive your DIN.
Tip – if you are a director and living overseas, you can still apply online if you can verify your identity with myGovID.
How do I apply for a DIN if I cannot get a myGovID?
If you can’t get a myGovID with a standard or strong identity strength, you can apply by phone or with a paper form.
You can apply by phone if you have:
The phone number is 13 62 50 and is available between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm Monday to Friday for directors in Australia. For directors calling from overseas, the number is +61 2 6216 3440.
If you can’t apply online or over the phone, you can apply using a downloadable form ‘Application for a director identification number’ (NAT 75329). This is a slower process and you will also need to provide certified copies of your documents to verify your identity.
Don’t get caught out
All directors should apply for their DID before the relevant deadline. Failure to comply with the new DID requirements or providing false or misleading information may result in both civil and criminal penalties.
Please also take care when applying for your DID. Only apply via the abrs.gov.au website as it is a secure site that will keep your information safe.
Please feel free to contact me if you need any assistance with applying for your DID or understanding your DID obligations.
How do I manage my DID?
Once you have received your DIN, you will be responsible for:-
https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number/manage-your-director-id
If you need any further advice please contact our office
https://www.umbrellaaccountants.com.au/contact-us/umbrella-accountants-narangba/
or book online
