Director Identification Number Regime

The ATO has announced a 14 day extension to the application deadline for a Director Identification Number.

While the deadline to apply for your director ID is 30 November 2022, if you apply by 14 December 2022 the ATO will not take further action in relation to your late application.

What is a Director Identification Number?

The Director Identification Number (Director ID) is a 15 digit unique identifier that will help prevent the use of false or fraudulent director identities with the new registry services of the ABRS. This will make it easier to trace director relationships across companies and help identify and eliminate involvement in illegal activity such as illegal phoenix activity.

What you need to do as of 1 November 2021? 

Individuals who are currently a director or will be acting as a director in the future must apply for a Director ID based on the transitional arrangements specified in the table below:

Are there any penalties for failing to apply for a Director ID?

It is a criminal offence if directors do not apply on time. The maximum penalties for individuals who fail to apply for a director ID by the deadline is $13,200. See table below for details:

How do individuals apply online for a Director ID?

1. Go to the ABRS website to access the ABRS Director ID service and learn about the Director ID requirements
2. Verify your identity using your myGovID credentials or create a myGovID using your smartphone and Australian identity documents. 
3. Conduct a proof of record ownership by answering two questions about the individual's ATO record. 
4. Complete a Director ID application on the ABRS platform to receive the Director ID instantly.

To find out more about the Director Identification Number and how to apply, visit the Australian Business Registry Services website.