Image: GovNews
The New South Wales government is determined to set the pace for digital transformation of government services.
Recently it released an Australian first: digital licences covering the Recreational Fishing Fee (fishing licence), Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) and Responsible Conduct of Gambling (RCG) Competency licence.
NSW residents can now download these digital licences on their smartphone or tablets through the new “My Licences” digital wallet in the latest version of the Service NSW app, the official, free NSW government app that helps users securely view and manage licence and vehicle registrations on their mobile devices.
When customers are asked to display their licence or permit, they will have the choice to provide either their physical card or digital licence.
The state government plans to introduce more licence types over time, with the digital Driver Licence slated for release in 2019. The digital licencing platform offers customers a convenient, secure, “always there” solution.
Minister for Finance, Services and Property Dominic Perrottet said, “NSW is leading the nation in government technology, and the number one reason is that we are determined to offer the best services to make life easier for the people of NSW,” Mr Perrottet said.
“If you carry a smartphone in your pocket and you’re looking forward to a wallet-free future, digital licences make so much sense – they’re easily accessible, safe and secure, and it’s one less thing to stuff in your wallet.”
“You can renew your licence and update your details with the click of a button, and there’s no need to visit a Service NSW centre or wait for something in the post. It’s all about saving time and making life easier, and these three licences are just the beginning.”
Digital licences are strictly optional, with physical licence cards to remain available for all licence holders.
Security has been paramount in developing the digital licence platform, which uses multi-tiered security features similar to phone banking. Licence data is securely stored in the user’s MyServiceNSW account, housed in the NSW government’s data centre, GovDC.
The digital platform also offers more control and autonomy for customers, allowing them to view when their licence was checked, update their account and view licence details.
Digital licences can be sighted just like physical licences, and authorities can also verify whether a digital licence is current or has conditions using a purpose-built checker app.
While users who choose to carry only a digital version of their licence must ensure their device remains charged and accessible, digital licences can be accessed on another smartphone or tablet by securely signing into the Service NSW App.
