Australian State Eyes Broad Blockchain Adoption

Australians in the state of New South Wales could soon be using digital, blockchain technology-powered high school diplomas and auto registrations, as well as birth and death certificates.

The state’s government is working on a pilot scheme with an Australian company named Secure Logic. The company’s remit was first expected to cover the issuing of digital driving licenses on a blockchain-powered platform, but could be set to expand.

Some 1,400 car owners volunteered for a successful digital driving license pilot in the city of Dubbo earlier this year, and a more ambitious second pilot – involving 140,000 drivers based in the outskirts of Sydney – has been slated for rollout in November.

However, per media outlets The Australian and IT News, the company says it has developed a blockchain platform that will also allow the government to issue a whole range of digital documentation, including medical records and property titles.

The state amended traffic-related legislation in May this year to allow drivers to present digital documentation to traffic police. Pubs and stores selling alcohol in the state can also legally accept digital documentation issued on government-approved blockchain platforms as proof of age.

Per media outlet CIO, Secure Logic’s CEO, Santosh Devaraj, stated, “The era of standing in line to file government paperwork is coming to an end – as is our reliance on physical identification cards to establish your identity or proof of age with law enforcement or at licensed venues.”

Crypto adoption in Australia is already well on its way. As reported, two fintech startups in Australia have decided to let crypto holders pay their bills with cryptocurrency. Since March 1st this year, Aussies are able to buy their bitcoin and ethereum for fiat in more than 1,200 newsstands all across the country.

The state of Queensland is also investing in TravelbyBit, a business that sells travel experiences for cryptocurrency. While the Commonwealth Bank of Australia was the lead manager for the world’s first public blockchain-based bond sale.