Verification of Identity
What is Verification of Identity?
Verification of Identity (VOI) is an identification process that supports the e-Conveyancing compliance framework. Once verified, PEXA network members can collaborate and transact efficiently online, enabling successful electronic lodgement and settlement of conveyancing matters.
The Verification of Identity requirements provide a standard for:
- PEXA to verify the identity of members completing e-Conveyancing transactions on the PEXA platform
- Lawyers and conveyancers to take reasonable steps to verify the identity of buyers and sellers
To complete a VOI when joining PEXA, network members must produce original documents as proof of identity. This could include documents such as an Australian passport, driver’s licence and birth certificate. Find out more about verification documents here.
VOI for network members joining PEXA
PEXA’s verification of identity process complies with the requirements determined by the registrar within each jurisdiction. These requirements are outlined in the Model Operating Requirements prescribed by ARNECC (Australian Registrars National E-Conveyancing Council). PEXA must uphold the requirements set out in the Model Operating Rules in order to engender and maintain trust in the network for all members.
A VOI should be completed by the person(s) who sign the PEXA Participation Agreement on behalf of their organisation. The PEXA Participation Agreement is the agreement which governs the relationship between PEXA and each network member.
Completing a VOI includes attending a face-to-face meeting and providing original documents as proof of identity. Throughout the registration process, a PEXA representative will be in touch to assist with and provide guidance on completing the VOI.
Who can assist with completing a VOI for PEXA members?
PEXA has partnered with Australia Post, ZipID and IDSecure to deliver easy and efficient identity verification services. VOI agents can assist network members with completing their own or their clients’ VOI. Further information on these services can be found below.
VOI for buyers and sellers
Lawyers and conveyancers are required to verify the identity of their clients when completing e-Conveyancing transactions. These identification requirements are outlined in the Model Participation Rules, a document written by ARNECC which outlines the requirements that network members must comply with when transacting electronically.
Client verification can be completed in line with the Verification of Identity Standard outlined in the Model Participation Rules, or by ensuring that reasonable steps have been taken to prove identity. For further information, please refer to the Model Participation Rules and ARNECC Guidance Note 2 – Verification of Identity.
Lawyers and conveyancers can:
- Complete client VOI themselves; or
- Use a VOI Agent, including Australia Post, ZipID or IDSecure.
International VOI
Australian citizens and residents who are overseas and are having their identity verified in accordance with the Model Participation Rules VOI Standard must have their identity verified at an Australian Consular Office. Please refer to the Model Participation Rules and paragraph 5.3 of ARNECC’s MPR Guidance Note 2 for further guidance from ARNECC on international VOI.
Please note that category 5 documents (MPR version 3) cannot be used for VOI in a foreign country.