Director Identification Numbers (DIN’s)
The Australian Government is modernising their business registers with the introduction of a new Director Identification Number (DIN) requirement, which is now available on the new Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS).
The aim of this change is to centralise Australian Business Registers and help to prevent the use of false or fraudulent director identities. Administration will be simplified for those individuals who are directors of multiple companies allowing for changes to be made across multiple entities.
What is a DIN?
The DIN is a unique 15-digit identifier that a director applies for once and is forever attached to them, like a Tax File Number.
An application for a DIN must be made individually. As you are required to prove your identity as part of the process, our firm, or any other third party, is not able to apply for a DIN on your behalf.
Who does it apply to?
From 1 November 2021 all Directors will need to verify their identities as part of this new Legislation. This will apply even if your directorship is associated with your SMSF or family trust.
When is the deadline to obtain a DIN?
Existing Directors
If you became a director before 31 October 2021 then you have until 30 November2022 to apply.
For New Directors
If you become a director between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022 you will need to apply within 28 days of the appointment.
Any directors appointed after 5 April 2022 will need to have a DIN prior to their appointment.
What is the process to apply for a DIN?
There are three options available
1- myGovID
This process will be the quickest way to lodge your application. It is a process that allows users to authenticate with the Australian Government websites and services.
Full instructions on this process are outlined in the next section below
2- Apply by Phone
It is possible to apply over the phone if you have an Australian TFN.
You will need to have your verification documents (as outlined below in step 3) ready prior to calling 13 62 50 from 8.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Friday.
For more information on this option click here
3- Paper form
A paper application can be lodged but will take a minimum of 28 days to process and will require certified documents (as outlined below). It is highly likely that this method will experience delays.
For more information on this option click here
You can access the form by clicking here
Online using myGovID
Step 1 – Set up myGovID
If you do not already have a myGovID you will need to set this up before you can apply for your DIN online. The myGovID is an authenticator app on your smart device (Apple or Android).
More information can be found here
Step 2 – Gather your documents
You will need to have at least 2 of the following documents to verify your identity
· driver’s licence or learner’s permit
· passport (not more than three years expired)
· birth certificate
· visa (using your foreign passport)
· citizenship certificate
· ImmiCard
· Medicare card.
If you need further assistance with setup of myGovID please contact the ATO who have a contact number specifically for myGovID setup. You can contact them on 1300 287 539 (option 2), they operate from 8 am to 6 pm Monday to Friday and 10 am to 2 pm on Saturday.
Please note that myGovID is different to myGov. The myGovID authenticator app allows you to prove who you are and log in to a range of government online services such as myGov.
Your myGov account allows you link and access online government services provided by Australian Taxation Office (ATO) and Medicare as examples.
Step 3 – Complete your application
After setting up myGovID you will need to have further documents ready (including your tax file number) so that the ATO can verify your details against their records:
- bank account details
- an ATO notice of assessment
- super account details
- a dividend statement
- a Centrelink payment summary
- a PAYG payment summary (this is different to your income statement, and/or your PAYG instalment activity statement).
Once you have these documents ready, complete the director identification number form by logging in with your myGovID email address. You can login in by clicking here
Once you have you successfully completed the form you will instantly receive your director ID. Please provide the ID to your company secretary and a copy to us as your tax agent and ASIC agent. You can email this to us by using this email address CAS@synstrat.com.au.
The Australian Taxation Office has a 3-minutevideo which also explains the process. You can watch this video here.
How can we help?
If you have any questions or would like further information about director IDs, please feel free to give your usual contact at Synstrat a call or arrange a time for a meeting so we can discuss your requirements in more detail.
While we are unable to apply for a director ID on your behalf, we would be more than happy to guide you through the process.
