Director Identification Numbers

From November 2021, directors will need to verify their identity as part of a new director ID requirement. A director ID is a unique identifier that a director will apply for once and keep forever. It will help prevent the use of false or fraudulent director identities. The Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) is responsible for the implementation and administration of director ID.

How director ID works

A director ID is a 15-digit identifier given to a director (or someone who intends to become a director) who has verified their identity with us.

Directors must apply for their director ID themselves because they will need to verify their identity. No one can apply on their behalf. It’s free to apply.

Directors will only ever have one director ID. They’ll keep it forever even if they change companies, stop being a director, change their name, or move interstate or overseas.

Why you need a director ID

Shareholders, employees, creditors, consumers, external administrators and regulators are entitled to know the names and certain details of the directors of a company.

All directors are required by law to verify their identity with us before receiving a director ID. This is important because it will help to:

• prevent the use of false or fraudulent director identities
• make it easier for external administrators and regulators to trace directors’ relationships with companies over time
• identify and eliminate director involvement in unlawful activity, such as illegal phoenix activity

How to apply for your director ID

All directors need to apply for their own director ID. The fastest way to do this is to apply online. Detailed instructions on how to apply can be found on the ABRS website here.

If you have any questions about director ID numbers or would like assistance with applying for yours, please don’t hesitate to contact our office!