Australia is another step closer to an economy-wide Digital ID system that will help protect people’s identity information, providing a way to securely verify who we are online with government services and businesses.
After the Bill was endorsed by the Senate Committee last month, amendments were proposed to respond to some of the issues raised by the committee’s inquiry.
These amendments include:
- creating a law enforcement reporting framework for transparency
- setting a timeframe for the phased roll out of the Government system
- stronger personal control around deactivation and reactivation of Digital IDs
- further restrictions on data retention
- making it easier for small businesses that seek accreditation to have privacy law coverage
- ensuring alternate ways to access services without Digital ID are easy to use and don’t disadvantage those who do not want a digital ID
- strengthening the position and requirements to ensure Digital ID is inclusive for people who may face barriers to access
- strengthening the requirements around biometric testing
- committing to developing a redress framework for individuals using the Government system
- further limiting data profiling.
The amended Bill has been passed by the Senate and will now progress to the House of Representatives.
The Digital ID Bill will put in place the legislative framework to create an economy-wide Digital ID system in Australia, ensuring there are strong privacy and security safeguards for people who choose to use Digital ID with an accredited provider.
You can read more about the amendments at www.digitalidentity.gov.au/legislation.
