Why the Census is important and the benefits of Census data to individuals, families and communities.
Australian Bureau of Statistics advise:
Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics counts every person and household in Australia. It is called the Census of Population and Housing.
The Census is the most comprehensive snapshot of the country and tells the story of how we are changing. It includes around 10 million households and over 25 million people. Census data tells us about the economic, social and cultural make-up of the country.
Governments and businesses use the information you give us to:
make important decisions about transport, schools, health care, roads and buildings
help plan local services for individuals, families and communities.
Some examples:
knowing the number of people living in regional and remote areas shows where doctors are needed
understanding how many babies are born in a local community and the languages spoken in people’s homes links Australians to the community services they need. Census night is on Tuesday 10 August 2021.
In late July, paper forms will be delivered to households in some rural and regional areas.
By early August, households will receive instructions on how to take part.
This year you can complete your Census as soon as you receive your instructions, if you know who will be home on Census night. This is different to past years when you had to fill in your form on Census night.
Census staff will be working in remote communities. They can do face to face interviews with people living there between July and August 2021.
You can fill in your form online, on paper or with help from us.
Key dates
Late July 2021 - paper forms will be delivered to households in some rural and regional areas
By early August 2021 - Households receive instructions on how to take part
10 August 2021 - Census night
After Census night - Households who have not responded will receive reminder letters and visits from Census staff
Late August 2021 - Field staff start visiting households that have not responded
June 2022 onwards - Release of 2021 Census data starts.
