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Digital identity has been a prominent topic of discussion in recent times, particularly in New Zealand, where Minister Collins inaugurated this year’s Summit, featuring Digital Identity New Zealand (DINZ) prominently.
Amidst a flurry of consultations in March and early April, the second revision of rules supporting New Zealand’s Digital Identity Trust Framework (DISTF) Act emerged, with the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) presenting to a captivated virtual audience earlier this month.
The response from Digital Identity NZ’s DISTF Working Group, composed of representatives from both private and public sectors, echoed a common sentiment: while there is a concerted effort to enhance security, data protection, and privacy to combat online fraud, stakeholders face a complex array of considerations.
Despite being optional for stakeholders, the fact that the framework is ‘opt-in’ and advocates for the provision of alternative non-digital channels offers a transitional period for stakeholders to acclimate and build confidence.
Simultaneously, the DINZ Biometrics Special Interest Group submitted a comprehensive response to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner’s exposure draft of a Code of Practice for biometrics under the Privacy Act 2020. The group emphasised the importance of clear guidance from the outset to ensure favourable outcomes for all New Zealanders.
Adding to the regulatory landscape, the impending introduction of the CDR/CPD Bill, with a significant digital identity component, raises concerns about the cumulative burden on the industry in New Zealand’s relatively small market. The mandatory nature of the CPD and the potential Biometrics Code, juxtaposed with the opt-in nature of the DISTF, poses challenges for stakeholders navigating regulatory compliance.
While various sectors, notably financial services, explore digital identity schemes within the DISTF, initiatives such as the Commerce Commission’s consultation on personal banking underscore the pivotal role of robust digital identification in facilitating seamless bank-switching and advancing Open Banking initiatives.
Reflecting on these developments, Payments NZ and DINZ convened a highly productive investigative sprint, uniting experts from diverse sectors to explore digital identity’s evolving landscape. Looking ahead, the research and education sector continues to lead discussions on digital identity, exemplified by upcoming events such as the lunchtime webinar titled ‘Digital Identity, Higher Education, Aotearoa,’ and a town hall meeting with The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua on the potential Central Bank Digital Currency and its implications, including digital identity considerations.
New Zealand’s digital transformation prioritises people, focusing on their evolving needs amidst rapid changes, employing emerging technologies, data, and shifts in government culture and practices. With a vision for a modernised public service and thriving citizens in the digital era, the transformation extends beyond IT enhancements to embrace new mindsets, skillsets, and inclusive practices.
This goal is to deliver personalised services, foster citizen engagement, and build trust through transparency and inclusivity. Central to this effort is the Strategy for a Digital Public Service, which aims to modernise services with citizens and businesses at the forefront.
Collaboration plays a pivotal role, with the Government Chief Digital Officer leading a collaborative effort with the Government Chief Data Steward and leaders across sectors. Through initiatives like the Digital Government Partnership and international partnerships, New Zealand collaborates globally, sharing knowledge and addressing shared challenges to advance its digital agenda.
New Zealand is dedicated to its digital transformation journey, emphasising inclusivity to guarantee that every individual is included in the shift toward a more digitally empowered society.
New Zealand launched the Government Digital Accessibility Forum (GDAF) on Global Accessibility Awareness Day 2023, fostering collaboration among public servants to improve the accessibility of public information and services. GDAF facilitates the exchange of ideas and best practices, promoting a digitally inclusive public service accessible to individuals with disabilities.
