Mastercard has chosen Australia as the test bed for its digital identity platform, beginning with two trials, including one with Australia Post and the other with Deakin University.

Mastercard said its digital ID model allows the data to sit with the user and is activated via a “distributed model” – ie, information stored on an individual’s mobile device and verified by additional reference points, such as an individual’s bank or participating government agencies.

It said this method eliminates the need for a centralised identity database.

Students from Deakin University used the platform for the identity verification process of student registration and digital exams.

Meanwhile, a separate partnership with Australia Post will see Mastercard’s new offering be integrated into the postal service’s existing Digital ID solution.