Chief of Police Welcomes Talks of National ID Card - Howard Bribes Teacher for Pen License

Australian Federal Police Chief Mick Keelty has backed plans for a review into a national identitification card.

Keelty believes the card would help in reducing terrorism and identity fraud.

NSW Premier, Morris Iemma has convened with the Prime Minister about the benefits of the card and promises to ensure 'proper protections for civil liberties and for privacy.'

Many doubt the claims and suggest a national identification card would give authorities supreme polling power.

One commentator on the SMH website (16 January, 2005) suggested that the government should instead enfoce a national IQ test before allowing citizens to vote in federal elections.

Another respondant stated that 'all our info is out there in one form or another, so why not put it all in one card, it would make my wallet a lot smaller...'

The idea for a national identity card was first suggested in the 1980's, though was defeated in the Senate in 1986 after strong public opposision.

Ben McCormack of ACA (26 May, 2004) believes the new incentive for a national card will have stronger support after recent terrorist threats, although it is suggested that the card will only allow for newer forms of identity theft and fraud.

How will a national identification card affect personal privacy? Have your say...