The Digital Identity Legislation: Submissions in Opposition are Due by 27 October, 2021. By James Reed
This is an email I received which was so well put I reproduce it, but it is warning about the proposed digital identity legislation proposed by the federal government. The email gives where this is likely to go, down the track, but the government material is all reassuring. Sure, what else could we expect; “trust me I am from the government and am here to help.” Sure, help whom?
You can make a submission, using the links given below, but it needs to be in by 27th October 2021. So freedom fighters, go for it!
“MOST AUSTRALIAN’S DO NOT KNOW ABOUT THIS
The Government are working on legislation that will allow them to have a Digital Identity system for every one of us. This legislation is currently at step 3 of 4, once it passes step 4 it is legislated and this is very worrying.
This Digital Identity will likely mean that everything will require QR coding, including grocery shopping (Coles and Woolworths are introducing eQR for paying for your groceries very soon). It appears to simplify things for us.
BUT
Are you willing to give the Government all of the information that identifies who you are in digital form and in ONE APP???. This information includes your Birth Certificate, Drivers Licence, Passport, Medicare Card. Ultimately, this may be linked to any other information in digital form including bank details, health records etc, and this is a very concerning situation. There are many legal, human rights, privacy, ethical and other concerns about this legislation. Check it out at www.digitalidentity.gov.au.
China has a system called The Social Credit System and this proposed legislation is likely to lead to this in the future. Check out how the Chinese system works and question whether you want to live like that.
So, if you don’t want this to happen it is VERY important that you let the government know. Submissions must be in by October the 27th 2021. If people don’t let the Government know we don’t want this legislation it is assumed that we do!!
You do this by writing your views in a Word Document or use the template Consultation Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) Public Submission Form at www.digitalidentity.gov.au.”
Here is what they say at the government website, and I am not convinced that we need a new way to prove who we are, because after Covid, I don’t trust the government with anything. But, for your interest, here is what they say, in many ways denying the implications drawn above. But, as I said, I do not trust them with anything. Least of all, my freedom!
https://www.digitalidentity.gov.au/about-digital-identity
“A new way to prove who you are
We are all required to prove our identity repeatedly to access a range of government services.
Digital Identity makes it quicker and easier to access government services by giving you the choice to create a Digital Identity with an accredited identity provider which you can use to prove who you are online again and again.
A Digital Identity is not a replacement for physical documents such as a birth certificate, visa, driver’s licence or passport. If you can’t use Digital Identity, or don’t want to, you can keep accessing government services online, on the phone or in person at government shop fronts across the country.
What Digital Identity is and your top questions
Here we explain some key points about what Digital Identity is, and address some common misconceptions about it.
What Digital Identity is:
- A safe, secure and convenient way to prove who you are online every time you access government services.
- Digital identity is entirely voluntary and controlled by you. You chose when to use it and your information is not shared with any service unless you consent.
- There is still the option to access government services by phone or in-person if preferred.
- Private and secure and protected by strict security protocols set by the Australian Government. Watch our video on how your personal information is protected.
- The Digital Identity System has a range of safeguards to stop your personal information being collected, profiled, used or sold for other purposes, such as direct marketing.
Your top questions about Digital Identity
Is Digital Identity linked to vaccination certificates?
No, there is no link between Digital Identity and vaccination certificates. You can choose to log into myGov using your Digital Identity, but Digital Identity is not needed to access or share a COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate.
Digital Identity is not used to track your vaccination status either. There is no link between Digital Identity and vaccination certificates.
Do I need a Digital Identity to go shopping?
Digital Identity is not a digital wallet or currency and not replacing cash or debit/credit cards. You don’t need a Digital Identity to go shopping and it can’t track your movements, shopping, online activity or bank details.
How will this legislation affect those who don’t have access to smart phones or internet?
Digital Identity is already entirely voluntary and ‘opt-in’ for the people who are able to and choose to use it.
This means that people without access to the technology (like a smart phone) to create and use a Digital Identity – or those who simply don’t want to have a Digital Identity for whatever reason – will still be able to access services.
The legislation ensures that the System is built in an inclusive and accessible way, to optimise accessibility and usability.
More information about the proposed Digital Identity legislation
You can find more information on this website.
The exposure draft and information about how to submit your feedback is on the Phase 3 webpage. You are also welcome to send your feedback to
Information about previous consultation phases is available on our Phase 1 and Phase 2 webpages.
We also have a fact sheet about the Digital Identity legislation [PDF 172KB] that explains what it is, who it is for, and what its benefits are.”
Folks, get your submissions in ASAP. I have a mighty bad feeling about this one.
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