Australia Creates Taskforce For Implementing Universal Digital ID System

Australia’s government has unveiled audacious plans to implement a universal digital ID system for its citizens, stirring up controversial issues related to privacy, surveillance, and free speech.

Finance and Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher made the announcement this month, outlining a blueprint for a platform that unifies an individual’s identification documents. This project seeks to leverage AI and biometric verification to enhance citizens’ interaction with government and third-party organizations conveniently and efficiently.

The proposed digital ID system is looking to evolve the existing digital ID, MyGovID, which is currently used by over 10.5 million Australians.

This existing platform interacts with 130 services across 40 different government agencies, but its function is limited to government service access.

The new legislation could provide a biometric identity verification system that operates on a national level.