The Director identification regime came into effect on 1 November 2021 and introduced requirements for both new and existing directors. Under the regime, existing directors appointed on or before 31 October 2021 are required to have applied for their Director Identification Number (DIN) before 30 November 2022. After this time, a failure to register is an offence and penalties apply.
What is a DIN?
A DIN is a unique identifier linked to the director which a director will apply for once and keep forever.
Does it apply to me?
This applies to directors if their organisation is a company, registered foreign company, registered Australian body or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander corporation.
When do I need to apply?
Existing directors (appointed on or before 31 October 2021) must apply prior to 30 November 2022 or risk facing penalties.
Directors who are appointed for the very first time (in any company) between 1 November 2021 and 4 April 2022 were required to apply for their DIN within 28 days of appointment. Moving forward, anyone appointed as director for the first time will need to apply for their DIN prior to their appointment, otherwise ASIC will not accept their appointment.
Penalties
Directors who fail to apply for a DIN within the stipulated time frame, apply for multiple DINs or misrepresent their DIN, may face penalties of up to $1,100,000 per offence.
Can someone apply on my behalf?
Directors must apply for their director ID themselves as they will need to verify their identity. No one can apply on their behalf.
How do I apply for a DIN?
1. Set up myGovID
Download the myGovID app (this is different to the MyGov app) on your smart device. You will need a standard or strong identity strength on this app in order to obtain a DIN.
2. Complete your application
Once you have registered a myGovID account, you can log in and apply for your DIN at https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number/apply-director-identification-number
When applying for your DIN, you will need to provide at a minimum your Tax File Number or residential address as held by the ATO.
