Starting from October 2021, Directors of different kinds will need to make applications for a director identification Number or DIN.
Intended to clean-up ASIC’s Companies register relating to directors’ details. The DIN will highlight inaccuracies in director’s names, dates, places of birth and residential addresses. All directors and alternate directors need to apply for a Director Identification Number, no exceptions. Unless deemed to be alternate directors, secretaries need not apply.
If you are eligible for a DIN and have not yet applied, don’t worry. There will be a phase in period as is specified below and Australian DIN applications have been made very simple. Keeping in mind, if you are seeking a foreign DIN, the process may be slightly more challenging. To apply, we recommend using your MyGovID (the ATO Portal app). The process will be more difficult via phone or paper. Application cut off dates and details are below.
When do directors need to apply?
Existing directors appointed before 31st October 2021:
Existing directors have until the end of the 13 month transitional period to identify themselves and apply. Transitional period ends 30 November 2022.
New Directors appointed between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022:
New Directors appointed between above dates have up to 28 days after their appointment to verify themselves and apply for their director ID.
New directors appointed after 5 April 2022:
Directors appointed after 5 April 2022 need to verify themselves and apply for a DIN before they are appointed as a director.
Existing CATSI Act directors appointing before 31st October 2022:
Directors of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporations registered under CATSI Act appointed before 31 October 2022 will have until 30 November 2023 to apply for their Director ID.
Intending Directors:
A person with the intention of becoming a director within 12 months may apply for a director ID. If the Director ID is not linked to a company within 12 months, the Director ID will be cancelled, and the director will need to apply to reactivate it.
How to Apply:
Directors must apply for their DIN themselves. It cannot be completed by an ASIC agent or other representative on their behalf. There are 3 ways to verify a director’s identity and apply for a director ID.
Digital application (preferred):
Set up myGovID app
Provide an email and complete the proof of record ownership (PORO) process via the app
Finally, apply online via the ABRS website
Phone application:
Apply for Director ID verbally over the phone
Answer questions regarding proof of identity documents
This is only available to directors who have an Australian TFN
Paper Application:
Apply for a Director ID using PDF form and provide certified (and translated) proof of identity documents and mail documents to: APRS, Locked Bag 6000, Albury NSW 2640
