Protective Security Policy Framework – Document Verification Service Fact Sheet

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Protective Security Policy Framework – Document Verification Service Fact Sheet [PDF]

Background

The Document Verification Service (DVS) is a national online system that allows organisations to check whether the biographic information on a customer’s identity documents match with the original record. The DVS is a secure system that operates 24/7 and matches key details contained on Australian-issued identifying credentials, providing a 'yes' or 'no' answer within seconds. The DVS helps organisations build greater confidence in the identities of their clients. This helps protect governments, businesses and Australians from identity crime.

The Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) mandates that entities must verify a person’s identity using the Document Verification Service as part of their pre-employment screening for all personnel1.

This fact sheet aims to explain the process for government organisations to connect and use the DVS.

What are my connection options?

Government organisations have two ways in which they can connect to the DVS – building their own direct connection or via a Gateway Service Provider. A GSP has already established a connection to the DVS and on-sells this as a service. Each organisation must decide which option they choose as both have advantages and disadvantages (e.g. costs vs build integration).

What do I need to do to get access to the DVS?

In order to access the DVS, organisations must first access the DVS government user webpage and:

  1. Review the DVS policy on government and private sector charging;
  2. Decide whether the organisation wants to build a connection to the DVS2 or connect via a Gateway Service Provider; and
  3. Complete a government user application form and submit the completed form to DVS.Manager@ag.gov.au

What happens after I submit the application?

The DVS Manager will establish contact with you to discuss your application progress.

How long will it take to get access to the DVS?

Depending on how you decide to connect, the access time will vary. A direct connection takes (in general) 3-6 months. Gateway Service Providers provide many different options for connection, enquires should be made directly to individual Gateway Service Providers for connection timeframes.

Can I speak to someone regarding the DVS and how to connect?

Yes. Please contact DVS.Manager@ag.gov.au.

Footnotes

  1. Eligibility and suitability of personnel, PSPF policy and guidance documents, Department of Home Affairs, accessed at https://www.protectivesecurity.gov.au/publications-library/policy-12-eligibility-and-suitability-personnel
  2. This is a 3-6 month process with the DVS Manager which attracts a once-off connection fee for service (currently set at $20,000 for connection to 11 document types).