Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher

A pilot project using Digital ID and Consumer Data Right (CDR) demonstrated safer and easier ways for renters to apply for properties without the need to hand over large amounts of personal documentation.

The pilot brought together groups of Digital ID providers, CDR data recipients and real estate entities, allowing participants to confirm their identity online instead of scanning and sharing copies of multiple ID documents, and to use the CDR to securely share verified financial data instead of payslips and bank statements to show they can afford the rent.

Results show real estate businesses could save around $150 per rental listing and up to 70 hours each month by reducing the amount of sensitive data they are required to collect. For renters applying for multiple properties, the time savings and reduced paperwork could be significant.

This demonstrates a significant opportunity to boost productivity while delivering more secure, privacy-preserving ways for renters to verify who they are and show they can afford the rent.

The pilot has also shown that the technical capability and market readiness exist today, and the Government will continue working with industry to support broader adoption of these safer, simpler ways to apply for a rental.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Finance, Katy Gallagher 

“Applying for a rental shouldn’t take hours, and it shouldn’t require handing over mountains of sensitive personal information like your passport, licence and payslips.

“This pilot has shown there is a better way, one that is faster, safer and easier for renters, while also reducing the burden on real estate businesses.

“This is another example of how the Albanese Government is using technology to make people’s lives easier and deliver better services.”

Quotes attributable to Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services, Dr Daniel Mulino MP 

“This pilot shows how government can work with industry to test practical, low-friction solutions that improve services for consumers and support innovation across the economy.

“Providing consumers with stronger protections and less need to hand over personal data shows how our reset of the Consumer Data Right is delivering simple, practical solutions and driving greater uptake across the economy.”

More information: 

The pilot tested how Digital ID and CDR can be used together in rental applications to reduce paperwork, improve privacy protections and streamline the process for renters and real estate businesses.