DTA launches first myGovID pilot

The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) has launched the first live pilot program involving myGovID, the first digital identity provider under the government’s Trusted Digital Identity Framework.

The pilot will see myGovID tested with a new online system for filing tax file number applications. It will mark the first time myGovID is used by real people to take advantage of a real service.

The pilot will bring the entire process of applying for a tax file number online, eliminating the need to complete a form and submit it along with identity documents at a post office. This will also reduce the waiting time before receiving a number from up to a month to mere minutes.

myGovID will be a digital identity that is the equivalent of 100 points of identification. It will be available through a mobile app, with users able to enter details such as driver’s licence or Medicare numbers directly to the app.

For access to government services that require a higher level of security, users will need to take a selfie and have the photograph checked against a passport photo.

DTA said the registration steps need only be completed once, and the checks can be completed nearly instantly with myGovID able to be activated in seconds.

For security purposes, myGovID will discard personal identity documents and details and photographs once the user’s identity is concerned, leaving only a user’s name, date of birth, mobile number and email address stored.

The system also uses what the DTA calls a double blind exchange with the services using myGovID to verify a user. Under this model, myGovID can’t access which services a user has accessed, while the government service provider can’t access a user’s personal information.

DTA plans to conduct more pilots with different government services over the coming months. In all, eight pilot programs are expected to be completed by mid-2019.

Over time, the government also plans to expand the Trusted Digital Identity Framework to add other accredited identity providers such as state or territory governments or private sector organisations.

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/Mathias Rosenthal

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