2011 Census News Release

Census launches huge job push in the bush

Australia’s largest ever peace time job drive has begun and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) needs the help of Northern Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

From today, over 1500 Census co-ordinator and interviewer jobs are available in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Northern Australia.

From the heartland of Central Australia to the remote islands of the north, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are needed to help tell the story of local communities through the Census.

The 2011 Census of Population and Housing aims to accurately measure the number of people living in Australia, their key characteristics and the places where they live.

Speaking at the launch of the program at the community of Galiwinku in Arnhemland, Northern Territory, Deputy Australian Statistician Peter Harper says the ABS is committed to employing local people to help conduct the Census.

“We are seeking collectors, interviewers and assistants in many remote Aboriginal and Torres Strait communities to help give the community a voice,” Mr Harper says.

Local District Manager for the region, Ms Selena Stewart urged people to help with the Census in any way they could.

“The Census is very important to help tell the story of your community. If you are a good talker, know the local area and have skills and ideas to help us, we are keen to hear from you,” Ms Stewart says.

Ms Daisy Gumbula, General Manager of the Marthakal Homeland Language Resource Centre is encouraging community people to be involved in the Census.

“We need everybody counted and local people are the best to do this,” Ms Gumbula says.

People can find out more by calling 1800 150 858.