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Director Identification Number (Director ID) — Complete Australian Guide

A Director Identification Number (Director ID) is a unique 15-digit identifier that all company directors in Australia are legally required to obtain. Designed to verify identity and track corporate history, the Director ID helps stamp out unlawful illegal phoenix activity while protecting directors' personal privacy on public records.

Administered by the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) and the ATO, a Director ID is issued to you as an individual. You keep this number forever, regardless of whether you change companies, cease being a director, move interstate, or relocate overseas.

Do I Need a Director ID?

You require a Director ID if you are an appointed Director or Alternate Director of any of the following Australian corporate entities:

  • Proprietary Limited (Pty Ltd) or Public Companies registered under the Corporations Act 2001.
  • Corporate Trustees acting on behalf of a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) or Family Discretionary Trust.
  • Charities or Not-For-Profit Organizations structured as a company limited by guarantee.
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporations registered under the CATSI Act.
  • Registered Australian Bodies or Foreign Companies (ARBN) conducting business in Australia.

When Do I Need to Apply by?

Deadlines depend on the date of your initial appointment under the Corporations Act 2001:

Date You Became a Director Mandatory Application Deadline
Appointed on or before 31 October 2021 30 November 2022
Appointed between 1 Nov 2021 – 4 April 2022 Within 28 days of appointment
Appointed from 5 April 2022 onwards BEFORE your official appointment
Substantial Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failing to obtain a Director ID is a criminal offense under the Corporations Act. Penalties enforced by ASIC can include civil penalties exceeding $1.1 million, or criminal penalties with custodial sentences for deliberate evasion.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Important note: Because Director ID requires biometric proof of identity, directors must apply for their own Director ID personally. Your tax agent or lawyer cannot apply on your behalf, but we can guide you through the process.

1

Set Up myGovID

Download the official myGovID app on your smartphone and achieve at least a Standard identity strength using your Australian passport, driver's licence, or Medicare card.

2

Gather Verification Info

You will need your Tax File Number (TFN), residential address on file with the ATO, and 2 verification documents (e.g. Notice of Assessment, bank account details, or super account details).

3

Apply Online at ABRS

Visit abrs.gov.au/director-id, log in with your myGovID, and complete the quick 5-minute online form. Your 15-digit number will be issued instantly on screen.

What to Do After Receiving Your Director ID

Once your 15-digit Director ID has been generated:

  • Store it safely: Keep a record alongside your personal tax documentation.
  • Provide it to Minhas & Co: As your company tax agent and ASIC compliance team, we will record your Director ID in your company register and update ASIC records.
  • Do NOT share it publicly: Never display your Director ID on invoices, websites, or business cards.

Need Help With Company Law & ASIC Compliance?

Minhas & Co manages company registrations, ASIC annual reviews, corporate secretarial records, and director compliance for businesses across Western Sydney.