If you were already a director of an existing company prior to 1 November 2021 and become a director of another company after 31 October 2021, then you had until 14 December 2022 to apply for your DIN. If you are yet to apply for your DIN, you should do so immediately.
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) are taking a reasonable approach to those who are trying to do the right thing. They will not take compliance action on applications received before 14 December 2022. After this date, however, penalties may apply for directors who are deliberately not meeting their obligations.
HOW TO APPLY - AUSTRALIAN DIRECTORS
A Director will need to apply for their own DIN. We are unable to make this application on your behalf. Applications can be made via the Australian Business Registry Services (ABRS) website at https://www.abrs.gov.au/director-identification-number. Directors will need a myGovID to access the ABRS site.
The reason you need to apply yourself is because you must verify your identity with the ABRS. If you use a tax agent, we can assist you with your records, for example by providing you with your notice of assessment details and bank account details used for ATO refunds.
OFFENCES AND PENALTIES
ABRS will provide support and guidance to directors to assist them to understand and meet their director ID obligation. ASIC’s enforcement role covers four new director ID offences under the Corporations Act 2001.
Offence Legislative section Maximum penalties for individuals
Failure to have a s1272C $13,200 (Criminal); $1,100,000 (Civil)
director ID when required
to do so
Failure to apply for a director ID s1272D $13,200 (Criminal); $1,100,000 (Civil)
Applying for multiple director IDs s1272G $26,640, 1 year imprisonment or both
(Criminal); $1,100,000 (Civil)
Misrepresenting director ID s1272H $26,640, 1 year imprisonment or both
(Criminal); $1,100,000 (Civil)