As technology advances, so does how we verify and authenticate our customers’ identities. Regardless of the industry you’re in, keeping up with these changes is essential but can certainly feel overwhelming. One of the most significant innovations in recent years is the adoption of digital IDs, which allows individuals to prove their identity using their smartphones.
With digital IDs rolling out in various formats and on various timelines across Australian states, questions arise about their acceptance and practical use in different industries. In this blog, we’ll look at what exactly digital ID is, how it works and provide an overview of its adoption across Australia.
So, what is Digital ID?
Digital ID is an electronic version of a physical identification document, such as a driver’s licence, accessed via the individual’s smartphone. It uses advanced encryption and security measures to protect personal information, making it a secure alternative to traditional physical ID documents.
Depending on the state, Digital IDs can be used for various purposes, including accessing government services, verifying identity for transactions, and providing proof of age or identity in bars and clubs.
The key benefits of digital ID include:
- Convenience: Easily accessible on smartphones, eliminating the need to carry physical documents.
- Security: Enhanced security features reduce the risk of forgery and identity theft.
- Efficiency: Streamlines the identification process, saving time for both businesses and consumers.
What does Digital ID look like across Australia?
New South Wales (NSW)
In NSW, Digital ID, similar to MyGovID, can be set up by individuals using the Service NSW app to save time when identifying themselves with participating government organisations and commercial businesses. Additionally, residents can get a Digital Driver’s Licence, also via the Service NSW app. The Digital Driver Licence has the same legal status as the physical card and is accepted by most pubs and clubs, as well as the NSW Police.
Scantek has full access via ServiceNSW to verify these IDs and confirm they are correct.
Queensland (QLD)
Similarly, Queensland has also embraced digital ID technology. Residents can apply for a Queensland Digital ID, and once they hold this, they can access their digital ID’s including driver’s and marine licences as well as Photo Cards (18+ cards) via the QLD Digital Licence. This digital ID is accepted in most places where physical IDs are required, including hospitality venues, retail stores, and for accessing government services. The state government continues to expand its acceptance across different sectors.
Queensland hospitality venues can also accept Australia Post Keypass identity cards, as well as SA & NSW digital driver’s licences. Scantek has full access via Transport and Main Roads QLD to verify these IDs and confirm they are correct.
Victoria (VIC)
Victoria has recently rolled out digital driver licences, available to all full licence holders. Learner drivers and p-platers will be able to access digital driver’s licences by 2025. Victorian digital driver’s licences are accessed via myVicRoads or the Service Victoria app and can be accepted at all licensed venues and anywhere else you need to prove your identity.
Private businesses such as Scantek cannot currently verify these IDs back to the government source.
South Australia (SA)
South Australia was one of the first states to introduce digital driver’s licences in 2019. The mySA GOV app allows South Australian residents to store and display their digital driver’s licence, boat licence, or proof of age card. These can be used just as physical IDs can for age verification, identity verification, and accessing government services.
Private businesses such as Scantek cannot currently verify these IDs back to the government source.
Western Australia (WA)
Western Australia does not currently offer a digital ID solution for its residents. However, residents can verify their identity using their myGovID via the Service WA app for supported government agencies. This cannot be used for age or identity verification in the private sector.
Tasmania (TAS)
Similar to WA, Tasmania does not currently have a digital ID solution. Instead, residents can use their myGovID to prove their identity with participating government agencies only.
Northern Territory (NT)
The Northern Territory does not yet support Digital ID, but in its 2024/25 Budget, it announced that it would be investing $20.66 million to establish a Digital ID program. A pilot program is expected to roll out in 2025.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
As with WA & Tasmania, the ACT currently supports Digital ID for certain government services only.
How does Digital ID work with Scantek?
We’re proud to be industry leaders and are quick to respond to changes in identity verification regulations. As such, we’re committed to supporting our customers to be able to accept digital IDs wherever possible. Some ways we’re doing this include…
- Advanced Verification Technology: Scantek’s technology utilises biometric verification, ensuring that the individual presenting the digital ID is who they claim to be. This prevents fraud and enhances security.
- Seamless Integration: Our solutions are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing systems, allowing businesses to adopt digital ID verification without significant disruptions.
- Real-Time Verification: We provide real-time verification, ensuring that IDs are authenticated quickly and accurately, reducing wait times and improving customer satisfaction.
- Compliance with Regulations: Our technology ensures compliance with ARNECC requirements and other relevant regulations, providing peace of mind for businesses in highly regulated industries.
- User-Friendly Interface: Scantek’s solutions are designed with user experience in mind, making it easy for your staff to verify IDs efficiently and accurately.
As digital ID becomes more prevalent across Australia and the risk of identity theft and data breaches rises, businesses must stay ahead of the curve by adopting technologies that support secure and efficient identity verification. Scantek is committed to helping businesses leverage the benefits of digital ID while maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance.
What does the future of Digital ID look like in Australia?
The relatively rapid adoption of digital IDs across Australia is a significant shift in how the identities of buyers, sellers and venue patrons are verified and authenticated. Understanding the nuances of digital ID and the state-specific implementations and limitations is crucial for conveyancers and hospitality venue owners. By partnering with Scantek, businesses can continue to provide a seamless experience for their clients and patrons while ensuring that they’re adhering to the latest identity requirements.
For more information on how Scantek can support your business with the roll-out of Digital ID, contact us today.