The federal government has launched the new myGov app, bringing easy access to government services to the public as part of its ongoing improvements to Australia’s largest authenticated government platform. 

The new app, which is now available to download from app stores, is said to include a digital wallet that stores government-issued cards and documents. 

These government-issued cards and documents can be digitally verified through a QR code, allowing Aussies ease of use as they are no longer required to store their personal information on the app. 

“This is a significant step forwards in tackling fraud and theft of these important documents,” Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten said. 

Minister Shorten said the app is another important step forward in the transformation of Australia’s digital government.

“People expect online services to be simple to use,” he said. 

“We know many people already use their smartphone to sign in to myGov, and the app gives them a new convenient and secure option to connect with government.” 

The federal government has ensured that people can sign in to the app using a 6-digit PIN or their phone’s security feature such as fingerprint or face recognition. 

Minister Shorten also states that the myGov app harnesses the in-built accessibility functions of mobile devices such as displaying larger text or text-to-speech options.  

This will allow Australians to access the app in the way they want or need. 

“myGov will continue to evolve, with updates and new features to be added over time. Insights from the myGov user audit, currently underway, will also help shape future improvements to myGov,” he said. 

Related: Services Australia lays off 1000 ICT contractors

While users may add Centrelink concession cards and International COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates to the myGov wallet immediately, they would have to wait until March next year to add their Medicare card. 

Minister Shorten said while using online services remains a choice, support is available for those who need a hand to get started. 

“All Services Australia service centres now offer digital support for people who want to improve their confidence in using online services or need help to get set up,” he said. 

“Customers can make an appointment for a free one-on-one digital coaching session, where a staff member will help them create a myGov account or download the myGov app to their own device and link services.  

Minister Shorten states that people can even make a follow-up appointment for a refresher or if they need help with something else later. 

Source: Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten media release. Content has been edited for style and length.

Eliza Sayon

Website | + posts

Eliza is a content producer and editor at Public Spectrum. She is an experienced writer on topics related to the government and to the public, as well as stories that uplift and improve the community.

• Developing an effective data ecosystem
• The journey of building an ecosystem through data
• NZ government strengthens data privacy laws against third parties
• eSafety Commissioner issues legal notice against Twitter