Chapter 3: Looking forward: 2023–24 ASAC Statement of Intent

The legislation, purpose, and role of ASAC will remain unchanged from 2022–23.

In line with its legislated functions, ASAC will continue to represent government and community interests by advising the Minister and the Australian Statistician on Australia’s current and longer-term statistical priorities and ABS’ strategies to deliver on them.

As an advisory forum with broad membership and understanding of developments in the wider environment, ASAC will:

• advise the Minister and the ABS as appropriate in relation to ABS functions
• provide input into the strategic directions, risks, priorities and key deliverables of the ABS
• advocate for an effective national statistical system and support the ABS’ role within it
• report annually to the Parliament.

To help the ABS respond to issues and plan, ASAC will:

• provide the ABS with frank advice and feedback
• draw on the expertise of ASAC members and seek input from stakeholders
• help identify risks and raise potential issues
• provide guidance where needed to ensure the ABS remains a trusted and relevant data provider.

The Chairperson of ASAC will convey advice to the Minister as appropriate and report back to the Council.

The priorities for the Council remain unchanged for 2023–24:

• Advise on the ABS work program under resource constraints to ensure the ongoing needs of government and stakeholders for quality data can be met in a timely, efficient, and effective manner.
• Assist in clarifying ABS roles and responsibilities within an evolving data landscape, including in data integration and access, strengthening data security, and in the promotion of an effective national statistical system.
• Assist in building and maintaining community trust, including through supporting ABS activities, identifying potential reputational risks and advising on stakeholder engagement.
• Advise on opportunities to enhance statistical capabilities across the public sector and beyond.
• Monitor and advise on the 2026 Census program in light of lessons from the 2021 Census including potential innovations in the conduct of the Census, and longer-term possibilities for the Census.

The Council will meet three times in 2023–24: July 2023 (Sydney), November 2023 (Canberra) and March 2024 (Melbourne).