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This variable records the year of arrival in Australia for people born overseas who intend staying in Australia for at least one year. In 1996, data are collected in categories ranging from 'Before 1981' to '1996'. When cross-classified with other census data, these data are useful for analysing how the characteristics of migrants change with length of time in Australia. A question on year of first arrival of overseas born people has been included in every Australian census. In censuses prior to 1991, this information was stored in terms of period of residence.

A new response category 'Will be here less than one year' is introduced in 1996 to reflect the new standard which specifies that this variable is only applicable for people who intend to stay in Australia for at least one year. Thus, some people who were born overseas are recorded as being Not Applicable to Year of Arrival.

A check is made to ensure that a person's stated age is compatible with period of residence.

This variable is coded Not Applicable if the person's birthplace is reported as Australia.


Year of Birth

See Age (AGEP).


Year of Qualification

See Qualification.

See Journey to Work, Origin Zone, Work Destination Zone (DZNP).