States and territories have agreed to prioritise a national digital identity system. 

The national system seeks to allow citizens to verify their identity online when accessing public services. 

The Morrison Government has consulted on new laws for an Australian Government Digital Identity System, but has not introduced the legislation yet. 

The government says it wants to make it easier for people to identify themselves online when using government services like applying for a licence or tax file number.

The digital and data ministers of Australia’s states and territories met this week to discuss the system. They agreed to make it a top priority for 2022. 

The consultation last year heard states and territories were concerned about how the legislation would harmonise with each jurisdiction’s laws. 

Also, privacy advocates want an option to opt-out of features and ensure other means of verifying people’s identities are still considered valid.

At the recent meeting, ministers also agreed to increase collaboration on ICT procurement for cost efficiency and better services delivery.

The federal government claims its digital ID legislation will establish an oversight authority to govern the system, and involve the Office of the Information Commissioner to regulate privacy.