Putting you in control of your identity

Verifying your identity can be time consuming, but it should only take seconds in today’s digital era. The future is digital identity.

NSW Digital ID will soon be available to you, offering an easier way to securely verify your identity online and in-person. 

Collage of images of men and women using their mobile phones

Everything you need to know about NSW Digital ID

The NSW Government is working hard to deliver a convenient, secure and private digital identity solution for our customers across NSW, supported by a trusted technology foundation and legislative framework. 

Image of male cafe worker on his mobile phone behind the counter

A solution for everyone

Proving your identity will become much faster and more convenient – you’ll be able to do it anytime, anywhere using the Service NSW app on your smartphone. 

Simple

You only need to set it up once and go. No paperwork. No more queues.

Private

Your privacy is in your hands. Only you can access it, no one else.

Secure

You control what details are shared, when and with whom.

The future is digital identity

3:19

Choose NSW Digital ID

Have further questions?

What is a digital identity?

A digital identity is a way to prove your identity in a safe and secure way when accessing services or completing transactions online or in-person. A digital identity removes the need to prove your identity through face-to-face interactions and by using physical identity documents.

How much information is required to set up a NSW Digital ID?

To set up your NSW Digital ID, two or more identity documents, such as your driver licence and Medicare card, will be required as well as your mobile number and email address. Photo verification will be used for the NSW Digital ID, which requires you to take a selfie to match against your existing photo.

The selfie is not stored by Service NSW and will be discarded as soon as your NSW Digital ID is set up. This will create and activate your NSW Digital ID. It’s a very simple and quick process.

How is this different from myGovID?

myGovID, which is handled by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), verifies your identity for access to Australian Government services, rather than having to be verified individually by each government entity. These services include Centrelink, Tax, Medicare, National Disability Insurance Scheme and Australian Business Number.

Whereas, the NSW Digital ID will allow you to prove your identity with not only government organisations, but also with businesses without having to disclose additional personal information, such as your driver licence or Medicare numbers. This will take the hassle out of registering and applying for things you need – accessing government services, applying for a new bank account, changing utility providers, enrolling your kids in school and more.

Will the NSW Digital ID only be available on mobile phones or other devices?

To set up your NSW Digital ID you will need the Service NSW mobile app. In future, there will be options to create via a web browser or at a Service NSW service centre. However, your NSW Digital ID will be able to be used to prove your identity through your mobile app, web browser, or in person at a physical location.

Will I be able to use my NSW Digital ID outside NSW?

The NSW Government and the Australian Government are working closely together to explore adoption of a national Digital Identity ecosystem, which will enable the use of NSW Digital ID outside of NSW. When in operation, a nationally consistent approach will provide a seamless experience when transacting with government and businesses at all levels. 

Is it hard to use for seniors or those with disability?

NSW Digital ID is simple enough for anyone to use. It will provide greater accessibility, particularly for customers with disability, are time poor, or live in rural or regional areas. This puts all our customers at the centre of their digital identity and credentials. But it is completely optional whether you choose to use it or not. 

What if I am not comfortable using a Digital ID? Are there other options?

Yes. Using NSW Digital ID is completely optional. It won’t replace the paper versions of your credentials and cards, but it will give you a more convenient option to help prove your identity online and in-person. 

Who will accept the NSW Digital ID?

You will be able to use your NSW Digital ID with participating government organisations and commercial businesses, such as banks, utility providers, etc. We’re working hard to bring as many partners on board as possible to make this a truly valuable service once it is generally available.

Last updated:
Top of page