Northern Territory to adopt smartphone digital ID technology

The Northern Territory Government has announced a groundbreaking initiative to introduce digital identification cards for residents, following in the footsteps of other state jurisdictions. With an investment of $20.66 million, Territory residents will soon be able to store their digital driver’s licences and Evidence of Age cards on their smartphones.

This budget announcement aims to streamline identification processes by allowing residents to access their digital licences through a digital wallet. The digital licences will also be integrated with other NT Government systems, such as the Banned Drinker Register and NT Police portable devices. While hard copies of licences will still be issued, the digital versions will provide added security and control over personal information shared with commercial identity verifiers.

A pilot program for the digital identification cards is set to be rolled out in 2025, with Chief Minister Eva Lawler emphasizing the government’s commitment to making ID production faster and easier for Territorians. Minister for Corporate and Digital Development Selena Uibo highlighted that the digital driver’s licence aligns with the NT Government Digital Transformation Plan, ensuring it will be user-friendly, secure, and reliable.

Hospitality NT CEO Alex Bruce expressed support for the initiative, noting the convenience it will bring to residents and tourists alike. With an average of 450,000 Banned Drinker Register scans per month, the introduction of digital IDs is expected to simplify access to services and streamline identification processes for all. The move towards digital identification marks a significant step forward in the Territory’s embrace of technology and innovation.