In its latest measure to combat phoenix activity, the Australian Government has introduced a regime requiring directors of Australian companies to hold a unique Director Identification Number (DIN). 

Modernising a 30-year-old system, the DIN regime is expected to kick off on 1 November 2021.  Failure by directors to apply for a DIN by the end of the transition period will amount to a breach of the legislation.  So that you don’t get caught out, we have summarised the requirements for new, existing and prospective directors of Australian companies below:



If you are a director, you will need to apply for a DIN yourself so that your identity can be verified.  An authorised agent will not be able to apply on your behalf.  The director ID application will be available from November 2021 at www.abrs.gov.au.  You can get ready to apply by accessing this page and setting up your myGovID if you don’t already have one, as well as by gathering the necessary identity documents listed on the application page.

A DIN attaches to a director permanently, which will mean businesses will be able to search potential directors on the registry and view their history as directors.  Companies will also easily be able to check for potential conflicts of interest through the DIN, which is particularly important for non-executive directors that may hold the position of director with multiple entities at any given time.

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