The case has been put by John Hartnett, a retired scientist, that Australia’s myGovID, used for federal government services such as taxes, welfare, health, education and social services, will be extended in the future into a compulsory structure. At present, the use of the system is optional, outside of Centrelink uses, but could be made into a “social credit” system like communist China’s. “The digital identity will rapidly lead to a digital dictatorship inside of a digital prison, … People could be controlled through this sort of technology, coupled with the score each person is given. If you don’t behave, your score will be set to such a state that you cannot unlock any services like buying food or travel. Just take a look at China now with their social credit system.” Hartnett sees this as most likely because given one foot in the door, the door is always kicked open, and tyrants who think that they can get more power, act to try and secure it.
