'It's the future': Australia's world-first plan to stop identity theft underway

The federal government is trialling a new way for Australians to prove their identity without handing over any sensitive information.

It's a world-first plan to stop identity theft.

"We are moving from cheques to tap and go ID," Government Services Minister Bill Shorten said.

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A Brisbane medical centre is the first to use the digital ID technology dubbed the 'Trust Exchange' which will put documents and paperwork in the past.

Instead of government-issued identification including Medicare, concession and veterans cards, Australians can scan their myGov wallet and confirm their identity without creating a copy.

"It is the future," trial participant Veronica Scipioni said.

Services Australia chief customer officer Jonathon Thorpe agreed.

"This really puts people in control of what's being shared and how it's being shared and making sure that's safe and secure," he said.

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The focus is now on medical service providers but the government hopes banks, real estate agents and hotels will sign up for the voluntary program.

It comes as data breaches reached its highest level in three and a half years.

There have been 527 breaches in Australia this year, with one of those affecting more than 10 million people.

Almost 70 per cent of those were committed by criminals with malicious intent.

"Identity fraud is a massive, multi-billion dollar issue," Shorten said.

"If someone gets their hands on your identity, it can be life-changing - and not in a good way."

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