The fastest way to apply for your director ID online is through the Australian Business Registers (ABR). Step-by-step guide to director ID application. Call 1300 133 244
Trusted by 500+ Australian Businesses
A director identification number (director ID) is a unique 15-digit identifier that every director of a company must obtain under Australian law. Introduced by the Australian Government as part of the Treasury Laws Amendment (Registries Modernisation and Other Measures) Act 2020, the director ID is designed to improve corporate transparency and prevent illegal phoenixing activities.
Whether you're appointing as a new director or have been a director for years, understanding the director ID requirements is essential for compliance. The Australian Business Registers (ABR) manages the director ID application process through their online portal, making it straightforward for directors to apply.
At Accountants Point, we help Sydney businesses navigate director ID requirements smoothly. Our team ensures you understand your obligations and complete the application process correctly. Contact us on 1300 133 244 for expert assistance with your director ID application.
Understanding who requires a director ID is crucial for compliance. The requirement applies to directors across various entity types.
All directors of Australian companies, including proprietary companies (private companies) and public companies, must obtain a director ID.
Officers of registered Indigenous corporations who are authorised to perform duties relating to the corporation's financial management must apply.
Directors of foreign companies registered in Australia under the Corporations Act 2001 must also obtain a director ID.
Other registered office holders in certain entity types may also be required to obtain a director ID depending on their specific role.
Each director must apply for their own director ID personally. Company secretaries, accountants, or other intermediaries cannot apply on behalf of a director. The application requires identity verification using the director's own documents.
The fastest way to apply for a director identification number is online through the Australian Business Registers (ABR) website. Follow this comprehensive guide.
Before starting your application, ensure you have the following documents and information ready:
https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number/apply-director-identification-number. This is the official government portal for director ID applications. Click the "Apply for a director ID" option to begin your application.
Apply Now at ABR PortalImportant: Ensure you're on the genuine government website. The URL should be abrs.gov.au. Be cautious of third-party websites offering to apply on your behalf for a fee.
You'll need to prove your identity using one of three methods. Choose the option that works best for you:
Use your current Australian passport details
For Australian visa holders with an ImmiCard
Use TFN plus ATO or Services Australia documents
Fill in the required details including your personal information, TFN, and residential address. The system will verify your identity automatically. If you're using the document verification method, you'll need to enter details from your chosen identity document.
Review all information carefully before submitting to ensure accuracy. Errors may cause delays in receiving your director ID.
Once your application is approved, you'll receive your director ID immediately on screen. You can also download a PDF copy for your records. Your director ID will be sent to your myGov inbox if you're linked to the ABR online services through myGov.
Pro tip: Save your director ID in a secure location. You'll need to provide it when accepting a director position with any Australian company.
Understanding the deadlines for director ID applications is crucial to avoid penalties. The timing depends on when you became a director.
If you were a director before 1 November 2021, you must apply for your director ID by 30 November 2022. This deadline has already passed for existing directors.
If you became a director on or after 1 November 2021, you must apply for your director ID within 28 days of your appointment. This is a strict deadline—applying late could result in penalties.
For anyone planning to become a director in the future, you must apply for your director ID before accepting the director position. The application can be completed in advance—there's no need to wait until you're officially appointed.
Failure to apply for a director ID when required can result in significant penalties including fines of up to $13,200 or imprisonment. Additionally, directors without a valid director ID may be prohibited from managing corporations.
Get answers to common questions about director ID applications.
Our expert team at Accountants Point can guide you through the director ID application process. Contact us today for assistance.
Visit Our Office
Suite 12, 71-73 Archer Street, Chatswood NSW 2067
Serving all of Sydney and surrounding areas