Australia Passes Digital ID Bill 2024 to Replace Physical IDs and Enhance Online Services

Australia’s House of Representatives has passed the Digital ID Bill 2024, with 87 members voting in favor and 56 against. The bill aims to establish a national digital identification program, which will replace the need for physical IDs and be linked with various government services such as MyGov, Centrelink, Medicare, and the Australian Tax Office.

The implementation of the digital ID program has been allocated a budget of $288.1 million from the federal budget. The legislation received support from the Labor government, the left-wing Greens, and the “Teals” party, while being opposed by the Liberal-National Opposition. It had already passed the Senate in March.

During the Chamber debate, Nationals MP Pat Conaghan expressed concerns raised by voters in his electorate regarding privacy, government intervention, and personal freedoms. However, Labor MP Graham Perrett argued that the legislation was overdue, secure, and fully voluntary. He highlighted that having a digital ID provides a secure and convenient way to verify one’s identity online without relying on traditional methods such as birth certificates or passports.

The Labor government has emphasized that the digital ID will be a convenient and voluntary option for verifying identities online without repeatedly sharing sensitive documents. Private businesses will also have the opportunity to join Australia’s digital ID system within two years of the law being enacted.

However, there are concerns raised by Liberal Senator Alex Antic regarding the potential for the digital ID program to become mandatory. He pointed out exceptions outlined in the legislation where individuals may be compelled to set up a digital ID due to the closure of physical bank branches. There are also concerns about the power of the “digital ID regulator” to grant exemptions and determine whether making a digital ID mandatory is appropriate.

One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts has warned that the digital ID could potentially work alongside other initiatives such as the Misinformation Bill and digital currency to create a “social credit” system similar to China’s. He expressed concerns about complete control over citizens’ lives. On the other hand, Labor Senator Katy Gallagher has emphasized that the digital ID program will enhance online safety by reducing the amount of personal information shared and subjecting organizations to stronger regulation.

In conclusion, the passage of the Digital ID Bill 2024 in Australia’s House of Representatives marks a significant step towards the implementation of a national digital identification program. While proponents argue that it will provide convenience and enhanced security, there are concerns about potential mandation and the possibility of a “social credit” system. It remains to be seen how these concerns will be addressed as the program is rolled out.