As of November 2021, Directors of Australian companies need to apply for a Director Identification Number (DIN).
A DIN is a 15-digit identification number used to verify the identity of a Director of a company. A DIN will be used for life and does not need to be re-applied for if they change companies, stop being a Director, change their name or move overseas.
The introduction of the Director Identification Number (DIN) regime is part of the Government’s Modernisation of Business Registers (MBR) Program creating greater transparency and tracking the movements of individuals over time.
To set up your Director Identification Number, you will need a myGovID. If you do not have a myGovID, you can set it up using the instructions on the myGovID website.
When applying for your DIN, you will need to provide some information that the ATO already knows. These details include your tax file number (TFN), your residential address and information from two documents which verify your identity such as:
- Bank account details
- An ATO notice of assessment
- Superannuation account details
- A PAYG payment summary
Once you have received your DIN, you should provide it to the company or registry.
If you are unable to apply using your myGovID, you can apply via paper form or by phone.
Directors who fail to meet the DIN obligations could be issued with an infringement notice or could expose themselves to civil or criminal penalties.
For more information or assistance please contact our office.
Mark De Luca, CPA, B.COM
Mark is an accountant with over 30 years of experience in tax, business advisory, and wealth structuring. He works with clients across industries including mining and resources, construction, manufacturing, and high net worth families with complex structures.
Mark specialises in improving business performance and protecting both family and business assets through effective structuring, with a strong focus on achieving optimal tax outcomes.