Statutory reviews of the Identity Verification Services Act 2023

The Attorney-General has commenced the statutory reviews of the Identity Verification Services Act 2023 (Cth) (IVS Act).

The statutory reviews consist of 2 concurrent reviews: the Interim Review and the Act Review, both required by the IVS Act.

• The Interim Review will consider the adequacy and operation of the privacy protections and security requirements in the IVS Act and associated instruments. It will also consider the penalties for non-compliance with obligations set out in participation agreements, including whether there is merit in developing a civil penalty framework for the IVS.
• The Act Review will consider the operation of the IVS Act, and the provision of the IVS more broadly.

Together, these reviews aim to ensure that the Identity Verification Services framework remains relevant, fit- for-purpose and meets public expectations, by enabling the provision of effective services that protect the safe handling of personal information. The Terms of Reference set out the overarching scope, principles and the specific matters to be considered.

Mr Ken Saurajen has been appointed to lead the reviews, which are scheduled to conclude on or before 14 June 2027.

For more information or queries, contact us at ivsactreviews@ag.gov.au.