Application for Suppression of Residential Addresses: Changes and Implications
- Arnold Shields
- May 22, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: May 15
Why Address Suppression Matters
Residential addresses, once publicly accessible through ASIC records, have become a privacy concern for many Australians. Victims of harassment or those in vulnerable situations face real dangers when their addresses are easily discoverable.
To address this, ASIC now allows individuals to apply for suppression of their residential address from public corporate and business registers.
What Has Changed?
In the past, suppressed addresses were completely removed from public view. However, this made it difficult for government services and other legitimate entities to verify identities.
Under the revised system:
Your exact address is hidden.
A suburb or locality is listed instead. This strikes a balance between privacy protection and functional transparency.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
Step 1: If You’re on the Australian Electoral Roll
Complete Form 379: Application for Suppression of Residential Address.
Provide:
Full name, date of birth, place of birth.
Current residential address (to be suppressed).
Substitute public address (e.g. a PO box or business address).
Attach your AEC silent enrolment approval letter.
Step 2: If You’re Not on the Electoral Roll
Submit Form 378: Application to Use an Alternative Address.
Include:
A statutory declaration explaining the risk to your safety.
Payment of the $44 application fee.
Then complete Form 379 (no AEC letter required).
What Happens After Submission?
ASIC Review: ASIC assesses your application based on the evidence provided.
Approval Notification: If accepted, you’ll receive written confirmation and an ASIC approval number. This number is vital for future updates or correspondence.
Protecting Your Privacy Is a Right, Not a Privilege
If your safety is at risk, or you simply want to keep your home address private, applying for suppression with ASIC is a prudent step. At Dolman Bateman, we can help guide you through the process and ensure your privacy is protected.
For tailored advice, contact us on (02) 9411 5422 or book a consultation.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal financial, legal or tax advice. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this content at the time of publication, tax laws and regulations may change, and individual circumstances vary. Dolman Bateman accepts no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage incurred as a result of acting on or relying upon any of the information contained herein. You should seek professional advice tailored to your specific situation before making any financial or tax decision.
