Australian Bureau of Statistics

What is the Census?

The Census of Population and Housing is the largest statistical operation undertaken by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). It aims to accurately measure the number of people in Australia on Census Night, their key characteristics, and the dwellings in which they live.

The scope of the Census is all people in Australia on Census Night, other than foreign diplomats and their families. Visitors to Australia are counted regardless of how long they have been in the country or how long they plan to stay. More information on the Census can be found in How Australia Takes a Census, 2006 (cat. no. 2903.0), which will be updated in the lead up to the 2011 Census.

The Census is conducted every five years.The next Census, Australia’s 16th, is planned for the night of 9 August 2011.


Making your community count

In the preparation for the 2011 Census the Australian Bureau of Statistics is seeking the advice and support of community focused and government organisations. The 2011 Census Local and Regional Engagement Strategy discusses how your organisation can be involved.


2011 Census News

The content of the 2011 Census has been announced. Find out more in Census of Population and Housing: Nature and Content, 2011 (cat. no. 2008.0)

The 2011 Census results will be released on the new geography standard, the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS). You are invited to comment on the proposed implementation plans. More information can be found in Discussion Paper: Census of Population and Housing - ABS News on 2011 Census Output Geography (cat. no. 2911.0.55.002). Submissions close Thursday 1 April 2010.


What else is happening?

Census Test 2010

During June 2010, the ABS will be conducting the Census Test 2010 in selected areas of New South Wales and South Australia. Keep a lookout on the ABS website for more information.