From 1 November 2021, all directors of a company registered in Australia must apply and obtain a Director Identification Number (DIN).
DIN is a unique 15-digit identifier issued to a director. Each director will only need to apply for the DIN once, even if they change their name. The DIN will be used by the director for any additional companies to which they are appointed in the future.
Depending on when a director is appointed, an application for DIN must be made before the following due date:
| Director Appointment Date | DIN Application Due Date |
| On or before 31 October 2021 | 30 November 2022 |
| Between 1 November 2021 to 4 April 2022 | Within 28 days from date of appointment |
| 5 April 2022 onwards | Before being appointment |
Failure to apply for a DIN before the due date can attract civil and criminal penalties.
The purpose of the DIN is to verify directors’ identities, to prevent the use of false director identities and eliminate other unlawful activity.
Visit the Australian Business Registry Services for further details and how to apply:
https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number
This article contains comments of a general nature and is not intended to be relied upon. No responsibility will be accepted by the author for any loss arising from reliance on this article. Legal advice should be sought in respect to your specific circumstances.
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