Government Will Make Digital ID Voluntary
Finance Minister Katy Gallagher announced amendments making the digital ID system voluntary, addressing coalition and Greens' concerns. This move, aimed at enhancing privacy and ensuring no disadvantage for those opting out, includes strict deactivation protections and data retention limitations. Law enforcement's access to personal data will require transparency, with mandatory annual reports to Parliament. The legislation also plans a phased rollout, extending the system to the private sector within two years.