It’s the world’s first plan to stop identity theft.
“We’re moving from checks to touch-and-go ID,” said Civil Services Minister Bill Shorten.
In lieu of government-issued ID, including Medicare, concessions and veterans cards, Australians can scan their myGov wallet and confirm their identity without creating a copy.
“This is the future,” said trial participant Veronica Scipioni.
Services Australia chief customer officer Jonathan Thorpe agreed.
“It really allows people to control what’s shared and how it’s shared and makes sure it’s safe and secure,” he said.
The focus is now on medical providers, but the government hopes banks, estate agents and hotels will sign up for the voluntary scheme.
It comes as data breaches hit their highest level in three and a half years.
There have been 527 breaches in Australia this year, with one affecting more than 10 million people.
Almost 70 percent of them were committed by criminals with malicious intent.
“Identity fraud is a huge, multi-billion dollar problem,” Shorten said.
“If someone gets hold of your identity, it can change your life – and not in a good way.”
