1370.0.00.002 - Measures of Australia's Progress - Aspirations for our Nation: A Conversation with Australians about Progress , 2011-12  
ARCHIVED ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 20/11/2012   
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MEDIA RELEASE
20 November 2012
Embargo: 11:30 am (Canberra Time)
183/2012

You told us, we listened: Measures of Australia's Progress reports back

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) today released a landmark report detailing Australians' views of what progress means to them.

The Australian Statistician, Brian Pink said ‘Measures of Australia's Progress - aspirations for our nation: a conversation with Australians about progress’ is the result of a two year consultation process between the ABS and Australians.

"Measures of Australia's Progress, or MAP, is one of our flagship publications and has used key statistical indicators to report on Australia's progress since its initial release in 2002,” Mr Pink said.

"However we wanted to check that we’re still measuring what Australians believe is important.

"Holding a consultation for MAP has allowed us to listen and reflect on the aspirations that Australians hold for national progress.

"The report highlights the ABS’ use of social media to engage new audiences and provides a record of consultation with a wide range of people including everyday Australians, experts, and well-known Australians such as Dick Smith and Lauren Jackson.

"We found that Australians feel that having equal opportunity or a fair go, is an essential element for progress. They also want an economy that meets Australia's needs today, tomorrow and into the future.

"People feel that the non-material aspects of life such as recreation, sport, popular culture and the arts are also important for progress.

"The consultation also revealed that Australians think having a say in the decision making that affects their lives, and having institutions that are accountable for their decisions, is crucial.

"The ABS would like to thank everyone who participated in this consultation process.

"We now look forward to using these aspirations as the basis for refreshing MAP for our November 2013 release” Mr Pink said.

Ongoing suggestions, comments and ideas about the contents of this publication are always welcome. Please contact us at: measuringprogress@abs.gov.au

Media notes:
  • A spokesperson will be available for live chats and interviews, including talk back broadcast requests.
  • When reporting on these statistics, attribute the Australian Bureau of Statistics (or ABS) as the source.

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