Australian state and territory issued identity photo cards


Australian state and territory issued identity photo cards are photo identification cards issued by the States and territories of Australia. While the drivers license is similar to the photo identity card, the photo identity card is treated separately here.

Summary

While each state and territory has differing rules and laws concerning the issue of these cards, they all have a number of common features. First they are issued by the government of the concerned state or territory to residents of that state or territory. Second, they are voluntary - there is no requirement to hold the card, there is a fee to obtain the card. Third they are issued by and are closely associated with the state or territorial government agency responsible for the issuing of drivers licences, and are often similar to, produced on the same plastic as, and maintained on the same systems as drivers licences. They universally show the photo of the individual, a signature, and their date of birth. They are all credit card sized. Finally, from 1 March 2017 all states and territories of Australia allow the issue of the card regardless of whether or not the holder has a drivers licence.
The following lists the different cards and the details.
State or territoryName of cardMinimum age*Available to driversValidity Shows SexNotesRefSample Image
Australian Capital TerritoryProof of Identity Card18YesNo expiryNo
New South WalesPhoto card16Yes5No10 year validity if over 21
Northern TerritoryEvidence of age card18Yes5No
QueenslandPhoto identification card15Yes10YesNo Address
South AustraliaProof of age card18YesNo expiryNoApply online if Driver
TasmaniaPersonal Information CardNo MinimumYes5No
VictoriaProof of age card18YesNo ExpiryYes
Western AustraliaPhoto card16Yes5NoAvailable with or without address or both

The photo card may become the de facto identity card once drivers licences become electronic, especially as some states such as NSW are encouraging the issue of such cards along with drivers licences at a nominal fee.

Document Verification Service

The Australian Attorney-General's Department provides a document verification service that allows for validation of some licences.