Identity Verification Services Act 2023

The Identity Verification Services Act 2023 aims to establish guidelines for providing identity verification services, including 1:1 and 1:many matching services. The Act authorizes the Department to develop, operate and maintain approved identity verification facilities, such as the DVS hub, Face Matching Service Hub, and NDLFRS.

The objects of this Act include authorizing the Department to collect, use and disclose identification information for purposes related to verifying identities, protecting shielded persons, and managing identification information in the NDLFRS. The Act also aims to protect identification information from unauthorised recording, disclosure or access by certain persons who do work for the Department.

The Act defines various terms, including identity verification service, face-matching service, DVS information, and identification information, which are used throughout the legislation. It also provides for oversight and scrutiny of the operation and management of approved identity verification facilities through publication of documents, annual assessment by the Information Commissioner, and annual reporting.

Key provisions of the Act include the requirement for participation agreements between parties to ensure privacy safeguards, rules governing the use or disclosure of identification information, and the prohibition on recording or disclosure of certain information by entrusted persons.