Qld digital licence trial nears statewide rollout

Queensland’s digital licence rollout is entering a new phase with Townsville residents trying out the new technology.

The system — reportedly the first of its kind used in Australia — has been provided to a select group of customers to trial. They’ll be providing feedback on their app experience before it’s made available to the wider community next month.

The Department of Transport and Main Roads has prioritised safety and security in developing the digital licence. Rigorous testing has been carried out over several months to give Queenslanders confidence that their data and privacy is secure.

The app has been completely redesigned to meet international standards. This means customers will be able to use their digital licence around the world. The technology is compatible with systems used in the European Union and parts of North America.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said, “Since inception we have taken the time and put in the effort to make sure that we aren’t just delivering the best digital licence but the safest as well.

“If you run a business or organisation which needs to verify your customers’ information, such as age, date of birth, address, driver licence status or more, it can all be done from the palm of your hand.”

More than 700 people and 120 businesses were part of the initial pilot on the Fraser Coast. Their experience and comments were used by the department to make improvements to the app.

Further feedback during this next phase will help to identify any areas for further improvement before the state-wide rollout begins later this year.

The first groups to access the trial include:

• Townsville Chamber of Commerce
• Townsville Liquor Accords
• Local, state and federal government agencies
• Significant local businesses and industry groups
• Palm Island and Indigenous community representatives.
   

Townsville residents will be able to access their digital licence as their postcode is added to the trial over the coming weeks. The service is available to anyone who has a Queensland driver licence, marine licence or photo identification card.

Image credit: iStock.com/Hirurg