Telstra Implements ConnectID Digital Identity Verification for Mobile Services

ConnectID, developed by Australian Payments Plus (AP+), enables customers to verify their identity online without the need to share or upload personal documents. The system functions as a secure bridge between organizations requiring identity verification and trusted information sources, such as major Australian banks.

The service has been integrated with several of Australia’s largest financial institutions, including Commonwealth Bank, NAB, ANZ (through ANZ Plus), and Westpac. This integration comes as part of a broader push toward enhanced digital identity capabilities in Australia, with Commonwealth Bank recently launching its own NameCheck verification service.

“In the digital economy there is a vital need to build trust between people and the organisations they interact with,” commented Lynn Kraus, CEO of AP+. “When a major organisation like Telstra enables customer verification without asking for documents to be uploaded, that’s a big step forward.”

Michael Griffiths, Executive Director of Operations at Telstra, highlighted the security benefits of the new system: “By simplifying the process and removing the need to collect and retain original ID documents, ConnectID is a more secure option, and another way we’re helping to protect our customers.”

Since its introduction in late 2024, tens of thousands of Telstra customers have used the service. Currently, ConnectID is available to customers seeking selected new mobile services who bank with participating financial institutions. Telstra and Australian Payments Plus are exploring opportunities to expand the rollout to additional services.

The implementation aligns with Australia’s preparation for the launch of its national digital ID system in summer 2024, representing a significant step toward more secure and efficient identity verification in the digital economy. This development follows other recent advances in Australia’s digital identity landscape, including Commonwealth Bank’s pilot of Medicare digital ID verification via Australia’s Trust Exchange.