Monash Uni delivers digital IDs

Physical ID cards are a thing of the past at Monash University, with the launch of a digital pass for iPhone, Apple Watch and Android smartphones that allows students and staff to move around campus with a single tap. The university says it is the first in Australia to use mobile credentials for building access, facilities and student/staff identification.

More convenient and secure, the new digital ‘M-Pass’, stored in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet, allows students and staff to complete any action that would have previously required a physical ID card.

As tens of thousands of new and existing Monash students and staff arrive for a new semester, they will be able to seamlessly access buildings across Monash’s Victorian campuses, including use of popular hubs such as the library, gym and shuttle bus services, as well as pay for printing and photocopying.

The move to digital eliminates the need to print and distribute physical cards, creating a safer, more cost-effective and more environmentally friendly process.

“Monash University prides itself on the early adoption and development of new user-convenient technologies and strives to continuously improve student and staff experiences. We’re proud to be at the forefront of a modern, more efficient way for students and staff to engage with our campus facilities and services,” said Peter Marshall, Chief Operating Officer and Senior Vice-President at Monash University.

iPhone and Apple Watch users who add their mobile M-Pass to Apple Wallet can enable Express Mode, allowing them to access locations with just a tap without the need to unlock or even wake up their device. If an iPhone needs to be charged, users can still use their device to access their office or amenity areas for up to five hours with Power Reserve.

“Tap and pay technology has become such an integral part of our everyday lives. Our students and staff are hungry for this type of technology which offers greater flexibility, a more secure experience, and aligns to our aspirations to be net zero by reducing plastic waste, setting up Monash to innovate further across the campus ecosystem,” said Josh Teichman, Director, Digital and Monash Connect at Monash University.

Monash University also worked with Transact Campus Inc. and HID Global, industry leaders for campus credentials and mobile access, to offer the new NFC-enabled digital M-Pass.

Image credit: iStock.com/EnDyk