Evidence of ID FAQ's

During the course of our day we tend to be asked a number of recurring questions.  To make things simpler we have listed them below and over time we will be adding additional questions. 
In the meantime if there is something that you would like to know about please don't hesitate to call us on (02) 9622 6060 or click on the icon to email us            


Can an overseas credit card be used?
Yes, as long as the card provider (bank) has a branch in Australia. 

Does a passport need to be Australian?
No.  International passports can be accepted.  However the passport must be current, or expired within the last two years, but can not be canceled.

Can an overseas birth certificate be accepted?
No.  Only an Australian full birth certificate (not an extract) or birth card issued by the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages in and Australian State or Territory can be accepted.

Does an applicant have to provide a primary document?
No.  If the applicant cannot produce a primary document, a combination of secondary documents totalling at least 100 points may be accepted provided that the applicant's photo, date of birth, signature and current residential address is shown on these documents.  However, only one primary document can be accepted.

Is an expired or cancelled driver's licence acceptable?
No.  All evidence of identity documents presented to assessors and Australia Post must be current.  The only exception is a passport that has expired within the last two years, but has not been cancelled.

What is an SC form?
An SC form is a special circumstances form that only applies to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants who do not have the standard evidence of identity documents. If it is identified that an applicant may fall within this category, they should contact the Third Party Management Unit on 1800 855 969.

What happens if an applicant provides documents that are not listed in the guidelines?
An applicant must provide the acceptable evidence of identity documents in accordance with guideline 46, and as listed in the table of attachment 1 of the Guidelines for conducting high-risk work assessments in NSW. If an applicant is unable to meet the evidence of identity requirements, the assessor must not conduct the assessment.

Are certified copies of evidence of identity documents permitted?
No.  Only original documents are to be accepted by both the accessor and Australia Post.

Is it OK to accept a council rate notice if it only has the applicant's initials and surname?
Yes. A council rate notice may be accepted if the name on the notice matches the initials and full surname of the applicant.

What if I have changed my name?
You need to provide evidence of your identity in your new name to the value of 100 points. You cannot use any documents that use a different name. If you have previously had a Certificate of Competency and have changed your name, contact WorkCover on 13 10 50 about changing your name details. You must contact WorkCover before attending Australia Post.

I have just arrived in Australia and I have a passport but no property, utilities or vehicle papers.  What can I use?
As a new arrival, you would have a current passport. This is worth 70 points and you will need to provide another 30 points from the list of options. If you don’t have any of the documents on the list, you will need to obtain them. An option would be to obtain an Australian driver’s licence or photo card, together with a bank/credit card or statement.

I am 18 and live with my parents.  Can I use my school ID or travel card?
No. You can only use the documents on the evidence of identity list. Young people need to establish their identity, too. If you don’t have a passport, obtain a copy of your birth certificate. Other documents you may have, or may be able to obtain include a Medicare card, or a bank access card or statement.

I am an indigenous person living in a remote area.  How do I provide evidence of my identity?
In rare cases, arrangements can be made for substitution of documents for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders living in remote areas. Contact WorkCover on 13 10 50 for more information.

To download a copy of WorkCovers Evidence of Identity Sheet please click on the following icon