Senator raises concerns that Digital ID could be connected to upcoming ‘Misinformation’ bill and Digital Currency
There were massive rallies in major capital cities across Australia to protest the upcoming national digital ID.
Concerns about a possible social credit system in Australia were expressed by political leaders at various rallies against the digital ID over the weekend.
Thousands gathered in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane on May 5 to voice their opposition to the impending national digital ID legislation.
The bill sets the groundwork for Australians to start using the new program for identity verification with government and businesses. It will complement the MyGov platform, which already connects to services like Centrelink, Medicare, and the Australian Tax Office.
Although the bill has passed the Senate, it still needs to be introduced in the House of Representatives, where the Labor Party holds the majority.
A ‘Social Credit’ System
During a speech in Sydney, New South Wales State Libertarian Party MP John Ruddick likened the national ID to a Beijing-style “social credit” system and warned that it may not remain voluntary for long.
Related Stories
“They have built a system that can easily transition into a social credit system similar to that of Beijing’s. They say they won’t, but we have to trust them, even though they have the capability,” he cautioned.
The Libertarian parliamentarian cautioned that a future crisis could prompt the transformation.
“Initially, everything might function smoothly for 10 or 20 years, where we don’t even think about it, and we have this digital ID.
“Then there comes a crisis, an unprecedented crisis … and they may say, ‘Look, this is a crisis like no other in history, we need temporary emergency powers to implement a social credit system. That’s how it might unfold,” he added.
Digital ID to Work Alongside Misinformation Bill, Digital Currency: Senator
Meanwhile, One Nation Senator Malcolm Roberts, speaking in Queensland, also raised concerns about a social credit system.
According to Mr. Roberts, the digital ID bill is interconnected with several other programs and laws.
“The good news is they say it’s voluntary. Just like the COVID vaccine system. You may not be able to feed your children without it. You may not have access to government services, funds, travel, education …”
The One Nation Senator, who voted against the bill in the Senate, mentioned that the digital ID would enable the government to consolidate all data in one place and potentially sell it.
“Currently, MyGov is already linked to driver’s licenses, passports, Medicare cards, [and] vaccination records. If the bill passes through the House of Representatives, the digital ID will link all government-related data of each individual in the country,” he stated.
“Absolutely no privacy. 350,000 federal public servants could access every piece of information about you and me. Everything. It will give them the power to withhold services if you don’t comply. It’s reminiscent of a totalitarian regime,” he added.
Mr. Roberts mentioned that the significant amendment would involve linking the government’s data with private sector data, including purchase records, to create a detailed digital profile for every citizen.
Opening a Bank Account May Be Affected: Senator
One concern brought to light by center-right Liberal Senator Alex Antic was the potential difficulties individuals might face when opening bank accounts.
The senator referred to section 74 of the legislation, which states that, “Creating and using a digital ID is voluntary.”
However, as per section 74 (2), it is not illegal for a bank to require a digital identity for their online services, as customers still have the option to visit physical branches.
Mr. Antic further highlighted that the digital ID regulator possesses the authority to grant an exemption to the voluntary aspect of the legislation “if the digital ID regulator deems it appropriate.”
Another scenario is when the party “provides services, or access to services, solely online,” as well as during emergencies.
Safe and Voluntary: Senator Katy Gallagher
Labor’s Finance Minister Katy Gallagher has assured the public that digital ID is secure and voluntary.
“Digital ID makes it safer and easier for Australians to verify their identities online,” she mentioned in a statement on March 27.
“Australians will share less personal information, held by fewer regulated organizations, reducing the risk of online identity theft.”
