myGovID is changing its name to myID

The Australian Government's digital identity app, myGovID, is being rebranded as myID. The name changes, but the app itself — and everything you use it for — stays the same. If you already have myGovID installed, you do not need to create a new account or re-verify your identity. The update rolls out automatically.

Why is the name changing?

The rebrand is part of a broader effort by the Australian Government to simplify its digital identity ecosystem. The previous name caused confusion — many people assumed myGovID was the same as their myGov account, which it is not. myGov is the portal where you access government services. myID (formerly myGovID) is the credential — the digital identity you use to prove who you are when logging in.

Separating the two names more clearly should reduce that confusion and make it easier for individuals and businesses to understand which tool does what.

What stays the same?

• Your existing identity strength (Basic, Standard, or Strong) is retained.
• Your linked ABN and Relationship Authorisation Manager (RAM) access are unaffected.
• ATO Online Services for Business continues to work exactly as before.
• The app icon and login flow will update gradually — no action required from you.
• Your email address and verified documents remain on file.

What you should check now

The rebrand is a good prompt to review a few things that often get overlooked. First, confirm your identity strength is appropriate for the services you need. A Standard or Strong identity is required for most ATO business functions — Basic strength alone will lock you out of certain lodgement and payment features.

Second, if you manage access for employees or contractors through RAM, verify that authorisations are current. Staff who have left the business may still hold active authorisations, which is a compliance and security risk worth addressing.

Third, make sure the email address linked to your myID account is one you actively monitor. Recovery and security notifications go to that address, and an outdated email can create real problems if you ever need to reset access.

For business owners and sole traders

If you operate a business and use myGovID — soon myID — to access the ATO's Online Services for Business, nothing about your day-to-day workflow changes. BAS lodgements, PAYG obligations, and activity statements all proceed as normal.

Where the change may surface is in staff training materials, internal guides, or onboarding documents that reference "myGovID" by name. It is worth updating those references over time so new team members are not confused by the old terminology.

Scam awareness

Any government rebrand creates an opportunity for scammers. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, texts, or calls claiming you need to "re-register" or "verify your identity again" because of the name change. The Australian Government will not contact you out of the blue asking for personal information in connection with this update. If you receive such a message, do not click any links — go directly to the official myID or ATO website.

Questions about your tax or compliance position?

Changes like this are minor in isolation, but they are a useful reminder to keep your digital access and authorisation settings in order. If you have questions about ATO access, RAM authorisations, or how your business interacts with the ATO's online systems, the team at GFM Accountants can help you work through it.

Reach out to book a consultation — we are happy to review your current setup and make sure everything is configured correctly before it becomes a problem.