Director ID Requirements and Deadlines

From 1 November 2021, directors of Australian companies have been required to hold a Director Identification Number (Director ID). The regime was introduced to combat illegal phoenixing — where directors shut down companies to avoid debts and start new ones under different names — and to make it easier to trace director relationships across companies.

A Director ID is a 15-digit identifier issued by the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS). It stays with the director for life, even if they change companies, resign, or move overseas. It does not replace the company's Australian Company Number (ACN) or Australian Business Number (ABN); it identifies the individual director.

Directors appointed before 1 November 2021 were given a transitional period to apply. New directors appointed from that date must apply before they are appointed. Failing to apply on time can result in penalties, and directors must verify their identity with ABRS as part of the application process.

If you are, or are about to become, a company director, the application is free and completed through ABRS online using myGovID. You will need to provide personal details and verify your identity. Once issued, the Director ID should be recorded with the company and may need to be reported to ASIC in certain circumstances.

If you have any questions about Director ID obligations or need help with company compliance, feel free to get in touch.