The mobile telecommunications industry has worked with the Federal Government to produce new ID pre-paid identity check forms to assist police and national security agencies in their investigations.

The new pre-paid identity check forms aim to simplify and streamline the current practices of stores being required by law to record customer ID details at the point of sale.

The new common form, which is used by all retailers, replaced the practice of using separate forms for each carrier. The aim ws to help retailers in their compliance duties.

Under Federal Government regulations, mobile service providers are required to collect, verify and store and, on lawful request, retrieve identity and address information about purchasers and users of pre-paid mobile phone services.

The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA), the peak industry body representing the mobile phone industry, has prepared guidelines for retail store management and checklists to assist retail staff with form completion. It has worked closely with 3, Optus, Telstra, Virgin Mobile Australia and Vodafone.

If you have any questions about the new form or procedures please contact the relevant provider or AMTA.