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ATO test runs AUSkey replacement

Technology

The ATO will look to phase in the replacement of AUSkey later on this year, with the new credential set to allow tax practitioners better mobility and access.

By Jotham Lian 8 minute read

AUSkey, a source of frustration for tax agents since its introduction in 2010, is set to be replaced with myGovID, which will allow agents to enrol and authenticate at a time, place and device of their convenience.

ATO deputy commissioner Andrew Watson said that while the agency cannot promise a definite release date, it has been trialling the portal credential with a small group of tax agents.

“[myGovID] will allow a new credential; it isn’t something you to install into a machine. It is a portable credential to use that and that will allow online services to be accessed from tablets or a mobile phone,” Mr Watson said.

“It starts to become independent of the AUSkey to eliminate some of its browser compatibility-type issues that we have had.

“We are trying to get away from setting these hard dates; we are testing it with agents now. We have agents who are now accessing online services for agents from iPads, from Android-based devices. It is starting off well.”

According to the ATO’s software developer’s site, the tax office is aiming to decommission AUSkey by March 2020.

AUSkey will continue to be made available to agents as the transition happens, and will continue to be the primary credential to access the ATO’s new online services for agents.

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Jotham Lian

Jotham Lian

AUTHOR

Jotham Lian is the editor of Accountants Daily, the leading source of breaking news, analysis and insight for Australian accounting professionals.

Before joining the team in 2017, Jotham wrote for a range of national mastheads including the Sydney Morning Herald, and Channel NewsAsia.

You can email Jotham at: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

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