The Australian government has opened the consultation process on the exposure draft of a Digital ID Bill, accompanied by draft Digital ID Rules and Digital ID Accreditation Rules, along with informational resources.

These materials are accessible on the digitalidentity.gov.au website for public feedback through three channels: a brief survey gauging general sentiment on Digital ID (closing on October 10), submissions on the Digital ID Bill and Rules (closing on October 10), and submissions on Accreditation Rules for Digital ID providers (closing on October 31). Finance Minister Katy Gallagher emphasized this consultation process, announcing that the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) would serve as the interim regulator for Digital ID.

Minister Gallagher expressed a target to have the legislation in place by mid-next year, acknowledging the challenge of the tight timeline. The proposed Digital Identity system builds upon the Trusted Digital Identity Framework (TDIF), an accreditation framework developed by the Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) in 2014. The existing Australian Government Digital Identity System (AGDIS) includes accredited entities interfacing with government systems. Still, the government envisions expansion into private sector services and providers in phases 3 and 4 of the AGDIS expansion. The aim is to finalize the Bill by the end of the year.

Why does it matter?

This development marks a significant step towards implementing a legislated Digital Identity system in Australia, with potential implications for government services and private sector interactions. The public consultation process reflects a commitment to inclusivity and transparency, ensuring that stakeholders' perspectives are considered in the final legislation.