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About the ABS Data Laboratory (ABSDL)
 

The ABS Data Laboratory (ABSDL) is the data analysis solution for high-end data users who want to extract full value from ABS microdata. ABSDL provides an interactive environment, enabling the analysis of Basic, Expanded or Specialist (customised) Confidentialised Unit Record Files (CURFs). ABSDL provides a more responsive and interactive environment in which to analyse CURFs than that offered by the Remote Access Data Laboratory (RADL).


Comparison of ABSDL and the RADL

ABSDLRADL
AccessOn-site in all ABS OfficesSecure remote access via the ABS website
ContentBasic and Expanded CURFs, or a Specialist CURF customised to client's analysis requirementsBasic and Expanded CURFs
Analytical packages availableSAS9.2 and SASEG, SPSS20 and Stata10.

Other analytical packages may be able to be provided if requested.		SAS9.1, SPSS11.5 and Stata10
Functionality Interactive. No automated protections of data within the ABSDL. In the ABSDL you can open and view the entire file, and undertake cross tabulations and other forms of analysis without automated restrictions. All outputs are vetted by ABS staff before release to clients to ensure confidentiality of respondents is protected. No internet access during sessions.Batch mode system. A range of automated protections of the data ensure confidentiality of respondents. Some commands restricted or forbidden and you cannot view the entire file.
AvailabilitySessions must be booked in advance if using Basic or Expanded CURFs. Several months may be required to produce Specialist CURFs required by clients.Generally available 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
CostAccess sessions are fully cost recovered. Specialist CURFs or other client specific requirements are fully cost recovered. See below for further details.No charge beyond CURF price


Pricing

The ABSDL service is provided on a fully cost-recovered basis, with a base price of $2,590 (including GST). Of this, $2,030 covers the one-off set up cost, and $560 provides one standard ABSDL session of 3.5 hours. The base price includes preparation of the desktop PC, maintenance of the client's access to a CURF, as well as vetting of all output produced during the ABSDL session. Additional sessions are priced at $560 per 3.5 hours or part thereof.
Loading of different analytical packages may incur additional costs.
Development of a Specialist CURF for use in the ABSDL is also cost recovered. As these are developed on a case-by-case basis the cost for Specialist CURFs may be considerable, depending on the client's data requirement.
Clients in universities participating in the ABS/Universities Australia Agreement are entitled to a specified ABSDL service - for which there is no charge to the individual user. Information about this is provided on the ABS/Universities Australia Agreement web page.


More information

For further information please contact ABS Microdata and Multidimensional data Access Strategies at 02 6252 7714 or email microdata.access@abs.gov.au


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