myGovID is a multifactor authentication service that allows the users to prove who they are online. It is available as an app through the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and is compatible with Apple devices using iOS 10 or above and any Android devices using Android 7.0 or above. You will be able to authenticate your login to the online services for agents through the phone app.
myGovID is separate from the more familiar myGov and cannot be used to access myGov yet.
In order to setup your myGovID, you will need:
• A smart device (iOS 10 or later, or Android 7.0 or later).
• An email address, that is unique to you, and not shared with other parties.
The steps required to set up myGovID are as follows:
1. Download the myGovID application, either from Apple App Store or through Google Play.
2. Open the myGovID app, and enter your details such as full name, date of birth and email address.
3. Attach your identity documents through the myGovID app. myGovID has two identity strengths: Standard and Basic.
A Standard identity strength allows you to access all participating government online services, once you have attached two of your Australian identity documents:
• driver’s license or learner’s permit
• passport
• birth certificate, and
• medicare card.
A Basic identity strength will allow you to access some participating government online services if you have added one or no identity documents. Many government online services will not accept this identity strength.
Implementation process
As per the instructions above, all of your employees will be required to register with myGovID.
Once your myGovID is setup, you can link your myGovID to a business via Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM), by logging to the RAM website.
Once in there, you can link your business’ Australian Business Number (ABN) to your myGovID account. (Note: If your business is new and not yet on the ABR, you may need to wait until this process is completed first.)
The principal authority of the business will have to link their myGovID to their ABN in RAM first. Then they can set up and import authorisations for other employees via RAM.
Risk mitigation
If you do not register for a myGovID past the end of March, AUSkey will cease working and you will lose access to the relevant government agency portals.
Client communication
Accountants can also reach out to their clients who regularly deal with government agencies online (eg ATO business portal), to lodge activity statements or to access other services, and assist with the transition from AUSkey.
Suggested actions
Accountants are advised to register themselves and their clients for myGovID at the earliest opportunity prior to the retirement of AUSkey in late March. This is to allow ample time to transition from one login system to the other, so that any issues can be resolved before AUSkey will be phased out for good.