NSW will use photo verification, or ‘facial signatures’ as part of a pilot involving online transactions with the government.

The pilot programs, starting this month via the Service NSW app, will see biometric technology used to remotely renew working with children checks and conduct proof of age checks for online alcohol purchases.

Photo verification technology uses an algorithm to match a selfie with a pre-existing reference photo in a government identity document database, like a drivers licence or passport photo.

Facial verification software reads the geometry of a selfie using biometric factors like distance between the eyes and distance from forehead to chin to produce a facial signature, and compares it to the reference photo.

A final verification and determination decision is made by software.

Bringing digital ID one step closer

The technology, which bring digital ID one step closer, will be opt-in, customer service and digital government minister Victor Dominello says.

The pilot will be assessed and customer protection enshrined in legislation prior to any subsequent roll-out of the technology.

Mr Dominello says no biometric or photo data will be stored once ID is verified.

“We have put privacy, security and customer control at the heart of the NSW Digital ID, and its pilots,” Mr Dominello said in a statement.

 “Customers will be able to store their encrypted personal information securely on their own device meaning it will not be held centrally by government or a private entity.”

 Mr Dominello said the NSW Digital ID program builds on the Federal myGovID program.

 “The NSW Digital ID program will provide customers with the ability to prove their identity through a secure digital channel when transacting with government, businesses or non-government organisations.

 “In doing so, it will unlock a range of possibilities for more inclusive and secure digital government services.”