• Summary
• Downloads
• Explanatory Notes
• Related Information
• Past Releases

In this issue:

Introduction
ABS website changes, national statistical service, survey workshop
State and regional indicators, population, demography, NATSIS survey, book publishers
Recent immigrants, household & family estimates, population, overseas arrivals/departures, social trends
Government cultural funding, recorded crime, sexual assault
Water account, international trade, labour costs, agricultural commodities
Higher education research, government technology, internet activity, hire services
TV, film & video production; performing arts; waste management
Ancestry, disability, cardiovascular disease, cancer
Measuring human capital, census CD design, health time series, tourism satellite account
Other selected releases
ABS statistical training
Points of contact


Introduction

Welcome to the second issue of Statistics Victoria for 2004. The four months from May to August has been a productive period for ABS. A number of high profile reports were released during this time, including the Australian Social Trends 2004 featuring statistics which describe various aspects of Australian society and how these are changing over time. We saw the much anticipated release of results from the new National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Survey conducted in 2002. This survey collected similar information to the General Social Survey, allowing comparison to be made between indigenous and non-indigenous populations in Australia. A couple of reports from the 2001 Australian Census Analytic Program were released; one looked at the characteristics of Australia's most recent immigrants while the other studied the census data on ancestry. Also census related is work being undertaken to redesign Collection Districts (CDs) in preparation for the 2006 Census of Population and Housing. On the demography front, ABS released the annual population by age and sex publication as well as a couple of reports based on 2001 census data; one on household estimates for Statistical Local Areas (SLAs) of Australia, and the other on household and family projections from 2001 to 2026. The latter report is particularly useful for those analysing the ageing population.

A number of economic publications were also released over the four months to August 2004. These included the 2000-01 issue of Water Accounts, which focused on the physical characteristics of Australia's water resources, and the 2002-03 Tourism Satellite Account which is part of the Australian National Accounts. The annual publication Agricultural Commodities provided final estimates for main commodities in the 2002-03 Agricultural Survey, while the Government Technology and Internet Activity publications provided statistics on use of information technology in Australia. ABS also released results of a number of service industry surveys: Hire Services; Television, Film and Video Production; Waste Management Services; and Performing Arts. On a more local perspective, release of the March Quarter 2004 issue of State and Regional Indicators, Victoria attracted a lot of media coverage, with much of the interest focussing on long-term unemployment figures for regional areas of Victoria.

In addition to releasing a large number of ABS publications and datasets, there were also a number of key web site developments which were released to the public. In May, ABS released a web site to support the National Statistical Service (NSS). NSS is an initiative which seeks to link producers and users of statistics in Australia in order to narrow the gap between the supply and need for information, and strive toward an expanded base of good quality statistics for all Australians. August saw the launch of a new-look ABS web site, with the new design aimed at facilitating better web site navigation and search, as well as a revised look and content for the Victorian theme page.

• navigation: introduction of consistent global navigation and 'Quick Links';
• more meaningful links: clearer language to aid navigation, especially for non-statistical users;
• search: an improved search is now available from every page;
• design: faster, efficient download time and greater consistency; and
• terminology: it's easier to understand our information.

• Feature Articles can now be found on the 'Australian Year Books' page;
• Census Maps are now on the 'Census' page;
• How to Access ABS Statistics is on the 'About us' page; and
• Main Features, timeseries spreadsheets and data cubes are now accessed through the link 'Access to all ABS products and statistics, including AusStats'.
  

The main Victorian pages are:

• Noticeboard: links to ABS newsletters, publication release advice, media releases, statistical training program, and National Statistical Service,
• ABS Statistical Publications, Data and Release Information: information on ABS products relevant to Victoria, with some summary information free online and costed products' content outlined,
• About the Victorian Office: location and office opening times,
• Non-ABS Sources: lists non-ABS websites, and includes links to Victorian government departments and agency website statistical pages, theme related content (economic, social and environmental), National Statistical Service site, and other Australian and overseas statistical agency sites,
• Products and Services: how to access ABS statistics, free summary information from many ABS publications, subscription and consultancy services, education resources, and Library Extension Program (free access ABS publications in libraries).

NSS web site released 14/5/04.

The National Statistical Service (NSS) supports a whole of government approach to management of statistical information. It aims to increase the range of good quality statistical information available for decision making, and forge statistical partnerships to share knowledge and expertise. As part of this initiative, a new web site <http://www.nss.gov.au> has been released to assist agencies to apply sound statistical and data management principles.

The first web site release provides a core set of resources, including:

• NSS Handbook and key principles,
• directories of statistical sources,
• published information development plans,
• statistical training offered by government agencies, and
• concepts, classifications and data dictionaries.

Contact Mark Lound on Canberra (02) 6252 5907 or email <mark.lound@abs.gov.au>.

Improving Survey Data Quality - Workshop

The Statistical Society of Australia Inc. (Victorian branch) are running a workshop on Improving Survey Data Quality on Monday 25th October, 9.30am-5.30pm. The presenter, Professor Denise Lievesley, is Director of Statistics at UNESCO and president-elect of the International Statistical Institute. The workshop will provide practical and relevant advice to people working in government, industry and research on how to better use surveys. Prof. Lievesley will outline ways in which errors can arise in the survey process, and will discuss ways in which they might be minimised and the effect they can have on the interpretation of results. The impact of sample design, non-response and questionnaire design on survey quality will be covered. Cost is: SSAI members $275, non-members $330. The venue is Training Room 1, Level 7, ABS, 485 LaTrobe St. Melbourne. Registrations close Friday 15 October. For further information contact: Jane Waslin, Statistical Society of Australia, Email: admin@statsoc.org.au, Phone: (02) 6249 8266 or Fax: (02) 6249 6558.

Contact Neil McLean on Melbourne (03) 9615 7463, or email <neil.mclean@abs.gov.au.>.

3235.2.55.001 Population by Age and Sex, Victoria, June 2003. Electronic Delivery. Released 30/6/04.

The estimated resident population of Victoria at June 2003 was 4.9 million, an annual increase of 60,083 people (1.2%). Victoria's population was 24.7% of the Australian total. There were an estimated 3.6 million people resident in the Melbourne Statistical Division (SD), representing an annual increase of 46,534 people. Melbourne SD was home to 72.4% of Victoria’s population, and accounted for 77.4% of Victoria's annual population growth. The median age of Victorians was 36.2 years. Children (0-14 years) represented 19.5% of Victorian population, down from 19.7% a year earlier. Persons 65 years and over accounted for 13.2% of population, a slight increase on 2002 (13.1%).

Contact Nancy Savic on Melbourne (03) 9615 7626 or email <nancy.savic@abs.gov.au>.

3311.2.55.001 Demography, Victoria, 2002. Electronic delivery. New issue. Released 5/5/04.

Replaces the previous hard copy publication (cat. no. 3311.2). It presents 2002 details for Victoria on: population, births and confinements, deaths, migration, marriages and divorces.

In 2002 there were 60,400 confinements resulting in 61,500 live births registered to mothers living in Victoria. Birth registrations were 5% higher than in 2001 (58,600 births) and the highest number recorded in Victoria since 1995. The total fertility rate was 1.7 babies per woman in 2002. Victoria recorded 33,800 deaths in 2002, giving a rate of 6.6 deaths per 1,000 population. Females born in 2002 could expect to live an average 82.8 years and males 77.8 years.

In 2002, there were 25,000 marriages registered in Victoria, giving a rate of 5.2 marriages per 1,000 population. The median age for brides was 26.3 years in 1992 and 29.1 years in 2002, while for bridegrooms it was 28.6 years and 30.9 years respectively. In 2001, there were 13,700 divorces granted in Victoria, giving a rate of 2.9 divorces per 1,000 population. This was a 30% increase over the 10,500 divorces granted in 1992. The median duration of marriage was 11.9 years in 2001 compared to 10.4 years in 1992.

Contact Nancy Savic in Melbourne (03) 9615 7626 or email <nancy.savic@abs.gov.au>.

4714.2.55.001 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Survey, Victoria, 2002. Electronic publication. New issue. Released 23/6/04.

Presents results for Victoria from the 2002 National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Survey (formerly Indigenous Social Survey), which brings together a wide range of information about Australia's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population. Topics include: culture and language, family and community, health, housing, education, employment, income, financial stress, transport and mobility, crime and justice. It provides an overview through commentary and summary tables for different population groups and themes, with more detailed information presented in cross-classified tables. It provides a range of information at national level, with an emphasis on comparisons with non-indigenous population where possible. Some time-series information is also provided. There are 22 tables with Victorian level data. The survey estimated there were 17,400 indigenous Victorians aged 15 years and over in 2002.

Contact Danny Cook on Northern Territory (08) 8943 2153 or email <danny.cook@abs.gov.au>.

Contact Tammie Davis on Adelaide (08) 8237 7329 or email <tammie.davis@abs.gov.au>..

2053.0 Australian Census Analytic Program: Australia's Most Recent Immigrants, 2001. Released 12/7/04.

This study from University of Adelaide analysed Australia’s recent immigrants, how they have adjusted to Australia and where they live. The improved labour market standing of recent immigrants sees them more likely to work in leading sectors of the economy, in jobs which recognise and reward their skill and education levels. Recent immigrants were more likely to be in the labour force and have higher skill and education levels than their counterparts who arrived in Australia earlier. They are well represented in the nation's high income earners; with 6% earning over $1,500 per week, compared to 4% of Australian-born people.

The vast majority (82%) of overseas-born settled in major urban areas, while only 7% chose to live in rural Australia. More than one in five Australians (22% or 4,105,643 people) were born overseas, and Australian-born people with at least one parent born overseas made up another 17% of the population. The publication presents several choropleth maps at SLA and SD geographic level.

Almost four in ten recent immigrants spoke only English, compared with nearly six in ten who arrived prior to 1996. Other languages spoken by recent immigrants are Chinese (15% of migrants) and Arabic languages (4%), with less than 1% speaking any of the main European languages. This analysis confirms that international migration has continued to be one of the major sources of social change in Australia between 1996 and 2001.

Contact Graeme Hugo (Professor of Geography, University of Adelaide) on Adelaide (08) 8303 3996.

3229.0.55.001 Household Estimates, Statistical Local Areas of Australia, June 2001. Electronic Delivery. Released 18/6/04.

Replaces 3236.0.55.001. A Datacube containing the estimated number of households by Statistical Local Area as at 30 June 2001. These 2001-census based household estimates can also be disaggregated by number of adults and number of children in household. For further details see Australian Demographic Statistics (cat. no. 3101.0).

Contact Rhonda de Vos on Canberra (02) 6252 6639 or email <rhonda.devos@abs.gov.au>.

3236.0 Household and Family Projections, Australia, 2001 to 2026. Released 18/6/04. Projects the number of households and families in Australia by state and capital city/balance of state for 2001 to 2026. Describes the method and assumptions used to produce these projections. Datacubes are available in electronic format under 3236.0.55.002 (households), 3236.0.55.003 (families) and 3236.0.55.004 (living arrangements). The number of families in Victoria is projected to increase between 24% and 30%, from 1.3 million in 2001 to 1.6 to 1.7 million in 2026. The number of households in Victoria is projected to increase by between 35% and 41%, from 1.8 million in 2001 to between 2.4 and 2.6 million in 2026. In Melbourne, household numbers are projected to increase by between 498,000 and 566,000, from 1.3 million in 2001 to between 1.8 and 1.9 million in 2026. Lone person households are projected to show the greatest percentage increase of all household types over the 25-year projection period. This is related to population ageing and the fact that older women, in particular, are more likely to live alone than others. Contact Matthew Montgomery on Canberra (02) 6252 6487 or email <matthew.montgomery@abs.gov.au>.

Contact Rachael Hill on Canberra (02) 6252 6296 or email <rachael.hill@abs.gov.au>.

3401.0 Overseas Arrivals and Departures, Australia, June 2004. Released 13/8/04.

During 2003-04, there were 5,109,300 visitors who departed Australia after a stay of less than 12 months, up 8% on 2002-03. Comparing 2002-03 with 2003-04, visitors who spent most of their time in the Northern Territory declined 15%, while Victoria (up 33%) had the largest proportional increase of any state/territory.

Contact Chrissy Beruldsen on Canberra (02) 6252 5640 or email <c.beruldsen@abs.gov.au>.

4102.0 Australian Social Trends, 2004. Released 15/6/04

This is the 11th edition of an annual series that presents information on contemporary social issues and areas of public policy concern. Chapters present Australia and state/territory data on: population, family and community, health, education and training, work, economic resources, and housing. Each chapter also features multiple thematic articles. There is also a chapter giving international comparisons on population, health, education, and work; comparing Australia with major OECD countries, our closest neighbours and trading partners.

The publication presents articles which expand and update analysis of topics examined in previous editions, including: population projections, child care, home ownership, and religious affiliation. There are also articles, including several that utilise ABS 2002 General Social Survey data, which cover new topics of interest; such as social interactions outside home, families with no employed parent, and paying for university education. The cumulative index now lists over 300 articles published across the 11 editions.

Contact: Marelle Rawson on Canberra (02) 6252 7187 or email <marelle.rawson@abs.gov.au.

Contact Kirsten Hastwell on Adelaide (08) 8237 7369 or email <kirsten.hastwell@abs.gov.au>.

4510.0 Recorded Crime - Victims, Australia, 2003. Released 27/5/04

This publication covers victims of a selected range of offences that were recorded by state and territory police in Australia during 2003. It includes information on the personal characteristics of victims; levels of victimisation; and characteristics associated with offence such as relationship of offender to victim, location, outcome of investigation, and weapon use. During 2003, offence categories with the largest number of victims recorded by Australian police were: other theft (638,968), unlawful entry with intent (353,419) and assault (158,629).

Overall the number of victims recorded by Australian police declined in most offence categories during 2003:

• Unlawful entry with intent victimisation rates decreased in every state and territory, with largest decreases in Northern Territory (26%) and Victoria (16%).
• Most states and territories recorded a decrease in rates for motor vehicle theft. The largest decreases were recorded in Victoria (19%) and New South Wales (17%). The Australian Capital Territory recorded a substantial increase of 24%.
• The rate for robbery decreased in all but two states and territories. The largest decreases were in South Australia (19%), Northern Territory (16%) and Victoria (11%). The only states to record increases were Queensland and Western Australia, where robbery victimisation rates increased by 4%.
• The rate of assault decreased for all states and territories except Northern Territory and Tasmania. Northern Territory recorded an increase of 7% to 1,874 per 100,000 population and Tasmania recorded an increase of 2% to 785 per 100,000 population.
• The Australian Capital Territory recorded the largest decrease in sexual assault victimisation rate at 32%, followed by Western Australia which recorded a 23% decrease. Victoria's rate declined by 5.8%. In contrast, South Australia recorded the largest rate increase at 13%.

Contact <crime.justice@abs.gov.au> or Lyn Tucker on Melbourne (03) 9615 7883.

Contact Michael Vardon on Canberra (02) 6252 7348 (email <michael.vardon@abs.gov.au>) or Stuart Peevor on (02) 6252 7042 (email <stuart.peevor@abs.gov.au>).

5368.0 International Trade in Goods and Services, Australia, June 2004. Released 29/7/04.

During 2003-04, the balance on goods and services on balance of payments basis (in current prices, original terms) for Australia was a deficit of $24.1b. This was an increase of $5.5b on the 2002-03 deficit, and was driven by a $5.4b (4%) decrease in exports and a $0.1b increase in imports of goods and services. For the 12 months ended June 2004, Victorian merchandise exports (on recorded trade basis) were $18.0b and merchandise imports (on recorded trade basis) were $40.7b.

Contact Artur Andrysiak on Canberra (02) 6252 6792 or email <a.andrysiak@abs.gov.au>.

6348.0.55.001 Labour Costs, Australia, 2002-03. New issue. Electronic delivery. Released 11/6/04.

The Major Labour Costs Survey collects statistics on the main costs incurred by employers as a consequence of employing labour. In Australia during 2002-03, total labour costs (in scope) incurred by employers were $354,150 million. Employee earnings accounted for 86.6% of total labour costs, followed by superannuation (7.6%), payroll tax (2.9%), workers' compensation (2.2%) and fringe benefits tax (0.8%).

In Victoria during 2002-03, major labour costs totalled $92,954 million. Costs were comprised of $80,350 million earnings (86.4%), $7,091 million superannuation (7.6%), $2,658 million payroll tax (2.9%), $2,102 million workers compensation (2.3%) and $753 million fringe benefits tax (0.8%).

Contact Kerry Foley on Perth (08) 9360 5373 or email <kerry.foley@abs.gov.au>.

7121.0 Agricultural Commodities, Australia, 2002-03. Released 28/6/04

This publication contains final estimates for main commodities collected in the 2002-03 Agricultural Survey. It includes statistics on crops, livestock and livestock products, land use and characteristics of farms. It also summarises recent analysis of 2001-02 Agricultural Survey coverage. Drought was the most important factor affecting agricultural production in Australia in 2002-03. The 'one in a hundred year' drought saw crops hit extremely hard over most of Australia, with most harvests significantly below average. In 2002-03, there were falls in reported numbers of all categories of livestock, with sheep and lamb numbers at their lowest level in 56 years.

During the 12 months to 30 June 2003, Australian farm numbers fell 2% from 135,000 to 133,000. Beef cattle farming remained the largest in terms of farm numbers (around 27% of all farms), followed by grain-sheep/beef farming (around 13%). A fall in the number of grain farms saw the sheep sector (10% of all farms) overtake it for third place. The 2002-03 median estimated value of agricultural operations (EVAO) for all Australian farms was approximately $109,000. Around 17% of all farms (22,000 farms) had an EVAO below $22,500; while at the other end of the scale, 11% (14,200 farms) had an EVAO above $500,000.

Drought and lack of water for irrigation throughout 2002-03 saw total production of grapes fall, with the largest decreases in Victoria (down 21% to 405,000 tonnes), South Australia (down 12% to 617,000 tonnes) and New South Wales (down 14% to 387,000 tonnes). Increased imports of pig meat and higher feed grain costs due to drought shortages increased pressure on the pig industry. The number of establishments reporting pigs fell 12% nationally to 2,900 at 30 June 2003, with a decline in establishment numbers in all states.

Statistics for Victoria in 2002-03 showed that agricultural production suffered as a result of drought conditions. The total value of agricultural commodities produced in Victoria fell by 20% to $7.5 billion due to reduced production in many areas. Wheat production was down by 68% to 890,000 tonnes, barley production down 71% to 478,000 tonnes and grape production down 21% to 405,000 tonnes. Livestock production was also affected with milk cattle numbers down 3% to 1.9 million, sheep and lamb numbers down by 4% to 20.4 million, although meat cattle numbers were little changed at 2.5 million. The number of chickens for meat production in Victoria increased 5% to 20.0 million at 30 June 2003.

Contact Gordon Cameron on Hobart (03) 6222 5939 or email <g.cameron@abs.gov.au>.

Contact Derek Byars on Canberra (02) 6252 5627 or email <derek.byars@abs.gov.au>.

8119.0 Government Technology, Australia, 2002-03. Released 2/7/04.

This survey of government information and communication technology (ICT) employment and expenditure was conducted in respect of 2002-03. The state/territory government level includes state/territory general government, vocational and school education; and the local government level includes local government authorities and other administrative bodies such as regional councils.

During 2002-03, selected ICT operating expenses by Victorian state government totalled $648 million, representing $3,100 per employee. This comprised $133 million for wages and salaries of ICT employees, and $514 million on other ICT expenses which included: $153 million ICT hardware operating expenses (30%), $70 million software operating expenses (14%), $127 million telecommunications operating expenses (25%), $61 million non-ongoing payments to contractors for ICT services (12%), and $104 million ongoing payments to contractors ( 20%). Selected ICT capital expenditure for Victorian government totalled $201 million, and included: $55 million computer software capitalised (27%), $114 million computers and computer peripherals capitalised (57%), and $33 million communications equipment capitalised (16%).

At 30 June 2003, Victorian state government had 2,827 ICT employees (1.4% of total Victorian state government employment) and local government had 486 ICT employees (1.2% of Victorian local government employment). During 2002-03, Victorian local government selected ICT operating expenses totalled $96 million: $26 million on wages and salaries of ICT employees, and $69 million on other ICT expenses. Victorian local government selected ICT capital expenditure was estimated at about $29 million (10-25% standard error). Selected ICT operating expenses for Victorian local government averaged $2,400 per employee.

Contact Kirsty Rothenbury on Perth (08) 9360 5382 or email <kirsty.rothenbury@abs.gov.au>.

8153.0 Internet Activity, Australia, March 2004. Released 23/7/04.

Dial-up subscriber numbers in Australia fell by 163,000 (4%) in the six months to end March 2004, and now account for 84% of total subscribers. Non dial-up subscribers grew 171,000 (25%), from 690,000 at end September 2003 to 861,000 at end March 2004. Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) subscriber numbers again showed strong growth, increasing by 140,000 (38%) to 512,000 in March quarter 2004.

At end March 2004 in Australia, there were 694 internet service providers (ISP) supplying Internet access to 5.2 million active subscribers, an increase of 27 ISPs (4%) over six months. There were 834,000 broadband subscribers, an increase of 27% in six months. During March quarter 2004, data downloaded by subscribers increased by 37% from 4,665 million Megabytes (MB) to 6,409 million MBs. Reflecting the much faster download speeds available with non dial-up technology, these non dial-up subscribers increased their usage by 53% and accounted for over 75% of total data downloaded, whilst dial-up subscribers increased their downloads by just 5%.

In Victoria, over the six months to end March quarter 2004: two new ISPs were added to total 215 ISPs operating. Access lines increased 14.0% to 395,898, subscribers increased 1.4% to 1,413,000, and data downloaded increased 43.8% to 1,721 million MBs.

Contact Peter Hodgson on Perth (08) 9360 5367 or email <peter.hodgson@abs.gov.au>.

8567.0 Hire Services, Australia, 2002-03. Released 18/6/04.

The 2002-03 Hire Services Survey measures the performance and structure of plant and equipment hiring; personal and household goods hiring; and motor vehicle hiring in Australia. A state dimension is presented. In Australia during 2002-03, there were 1,152 plant hire businesses with employment of 13,738 persons. These businesses generated $2,619.5m in income and incurred $2,273.2m in expenses. Plant hire/leasing income was predominantly generated from commercial clients (84.8%).

At end June 2003, motor vehicle hire employment totalled 6,796 people within 375 motor vehicle hire businesses. These businesses generated $2,003.8m in income and incurred $1,837.2m in expenses during 2002-03. Over half of motor vehicle hire income was earned from household clients (51.1%), followed by commercial (36.8%) and government clients (10.9%).

There were 495 household good hire businesses with employment of 4,222 persons. These businesses generated $359m in income and incurred $340.4m in expenses during 2002-03. Commercial clients (48.7%) were the main source of income, followed closely by household clients (44.9%).

Contact Marie Apostolou on Melbourne (03) 9615 7465 or email <marie.apostolou@abs.gov.au>.

Contact Marie Apostolou on Melbourne (03) 9615 7465 or email <marie.apostolou@abs.gov.au>.

8697.0 Performing Arts, Australia, 2002-03. Electronic delivery. Released 3/9/04.

This survey measured the performance and structure of music and theatre production organisations and performing arts festivals operating in Australia. The survey's main focus was on the composition of income generated by these organisations, details of expenses incurred, characteristics of performing arts genres, nature of 'for profit' and 'not for profit' organisations, and number of attendances and performances at these activities. A state dimension is also presented.

At end of June 2003, there were 865 music and theatre organisations operating in Australia, comprising 657 for profits and 208 not for profits. These organisations employed 7,842 persons. There were also 2,548 volunteers during June 2003. During 2002-03, music and theatre organisations generated $622.1m in income and incurred $575.6m in expenses. There were 53,241 paid performances and 14.2 million paid attendances at various music and theatre productions.

During 2002-03, there were 176 performing arts festivals operating for greater than two consecutive days. During these festivals, 1,272 people were employed and there were 15,728 volunteers. These organisations generated $88.5m income and incurred $82.8m in expenses during 2002-03. Across Australia, total attendance at performing arts festivals was estimated at 7.5 million, comprising 6 million free and 1.5 million paid attendances.

Contact Marie Apostolou on Melbourne (03) 9615 7465 or email <marie.apostolou@abs.gov.au>.

8698.0 Waste Management Services, Australia, 2002-03. Electronic delivery. Released 8/6/04.

This survey measured the performance and structure of organisations providing waste management services in Australia. The main focus was on understanding the nature of waste management activity, income generated, expenses incurred, and the nature and volume of waste quantities. Survey scope included employing businesses from the private and public trading sector in Australia that generated income predominantly from waste management services. These services include the collection, transport and/or disposal of refuse (except through sewerage systems). The scope also included waste management activities of the general government sector (mainly local government authorities). Businesses that generated income predominantly from the collection and transport, treatment/processing or sale of recyclables were not in scope.

In Australia at end June 2003, there were 1,092 private and public trading businesses providing waste management services which employed 14,386 persons. During 2002-03, these businesses generated $2,684.2m income, with expenses of $2,458.2m. The operating profit before tax was $226.6m, resulting in an operating profit margin of 8.5%. Collection and transport of waste was the major source of income ($1,595.4m, 59.4%), followed by treatment/processing and/or disposal of waste ($534.1m, 19.9%) and income from recyclables ($226.6m, 8.4%). Businesses providing waste management services were predominantly small employers, with 74.1% of all businesses employing 0-4 persons. A state perspective is present.

Contact Marie Apostolou on Melbourne (03) 9615 7465 or email <marie.apostolou@abs.gov.au>.

Contact author Siew-Ean Khoo on Canberra (02) 6125 3045.

4446.0 Disability, preliminary. New issue. Released 6/5/04.

This publication contains preliminary results on disability from the 2003 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers (SDAC). It provides a summary of disability prevalence in Australia. Final and more comprehensive results are expected to be released 15/9/04 in Disability, Ageing and Carers: Summary of Findings, Australia, 2003 (cat. no 4430.0).

The survey estimated that one in five Australians (3,951,000 or 20%) had a disability, with the same prevalence for males and females. The overall disability rate increased steadily from 4% of 0-4 year olds to 41% of 65-69 year olds, and 81% of 85 years and over.

One in seventeen people (5.9%) had a profound or severe level of core activity limitation (i.e. needed help with one or more self-care, mobility or communication activities), a slightly smaller proportion than in 1998 (6.4%). There was a gradual increase in profound or severe core activity limitation rate for ages 0-4 years (2.8%) through to 65-69 years (9.4%), but a sharp increase to 54% of those aged 85 years and over.

One in five people aged 15-64 years living in households with no disability had completed a bachelor degree or higher, compared to one in eight people in households with a disability. Employment-related findings, for people aged 15-64 years living in households included:

• those with a profound level of core activity limitation had a much lower labour force participation rate (15%) than people without a disability (81%),
• people with a disability had a higher unemployment rate (8.6%) than those without a disability (5.0%),
• people with a disability who were employed were more likely to work in a part-time job (37%) than those who were employed and did not have a disability (29%).

Contact Jane Griffin-Warwicke on Canberra (02) 6252 6535 or email <jane.griffin-warwicke@abs.gov.au>.

4822.0.55.001 Cancer in Australia: A Snapshot, 2001. New issue. Electronic delivery. Released 1/9/04.

This publication provides a brief overview of the differentials in prevalence and incidence of types of cancer suffered, cancer screening practices, trends in morbidity and mortality in Australia. Data regarding persons living outside hospitals, nursing and convalescent homes and hospices in Australia are provided from the 2001 National Health Survey, while other data is provided from both ABS and other sources. After adjusting for age differences in the population, 1.6% of persons living in private dwellings in 2001 had a medically diagnosed neoplasm. Of those reporting a neoplasm in 2001, 84% reported a malignant neoplasm (cancer) and 16% reported a benign neoplasm or neoplasm of an uncertain nature.

Contact Saul Flaxman on Canberra (02) 6252 5782 or email <saul.flaxman@abs.gov.au>.

Comments to Hui Wei in Canberra on (02) 6252 5754 or email <hui.wei@abs.gov.au>.

2006 Census Victorian collection district design.

Design work on collection districts (CD) for the 2006 Census commenced in February 2004, with an expected completion date of August 2005. While the majority of CDs remain stable between censuses, it is sometimes necessary to accommodate changes in population or administrative boundaries. The slow growing areas of Victoria undergo design work early; with higher growth areas, such as Melbourne's urban fringe, left to the end of cycle in order to minimise the amount of change between the design work and 2006 Census date.

In addition to producing a map that can be used by Census collectors in the field, the end result of CD design work is to produce a statistical unit that is useful for output purposes, as well as being a geographic unit that can be aggregated to higher level units in the Australian Standard Geographical Classification. To assist with new field procedures in 2006, identification of CDs with a high number of secured apartment buildings is also part of the process. Special enumeration strategies are likely to be adopted for these CDs to overcome collection issues encountered in the 2001 Census, particularly access. The CD design process is separate to the development of Mesh Blocks. CDs will still be the smallest geographic unit of dissemination in 2006, with experimental estimates for Mesh Blocks being released after initial processing is completed. From 2011 it is envisaged that CDs will be used for collection purposes only, with Mesh Blocks used for output.

For further information on CD design or other issues regarding the 2006 Census, please contact Simone Alexander in Melbourne on (03) 9615 7492 or <s.alexander@abs.gov.au>.

4826.0.55.001 Occasional Paper: Health Risk Factors - a Guide to Time Series Comparability from the National Health Survey, Australia. New issue. Released 16/6/04.

This paper is a guide for users undertaking comparison of selected health risk factors across National Health Surveys (NHS) of 1989-90, 1995 and 2001. To enable users to check against their own analysis, crude rates are presented from each survey for alcohol consumption, body mass index (BMI), exercise level, and smoking status. In some instances, there has been a change over time in question wording or associated inclusions, exclusions and prompts. A provisional reliability assessment of the NHS time series is given for each selected risk factor from both the trend in risk factor prevalence and questionnaire differences. This information may help inform decisions on the suitability of using data for particular risk factors for analysis over time. Throughout the paper are general comments based on ABS experience in survey development, results of testing, and a preliminary examination of results.

The 2001 NHS collected information about the health status of Australians, their use of health services and facilities, and health-related aspects of their lifestyle. State level output exists. Surveys conducted by the ABS in 1977-78 and 1983, while not part of the NHS series, also collected information similar to that obtained in the National Health Surveys. The NHS is expected to be collected every three years.

Contact Josie Barac on Canberra (02) 6252 6415 or email <josie.barac@abs.gov.au>.

5249.0 Australian National Accounts: Tourism Satellite Account 2002-03. Released 24/5/04

This publication presents results of the Tourism Satellite Account (TSA) for the years 1997-98 to 2002-03. Work on the TSA has been funded by the Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources (DITR). Tourism is not an industry in the traditional sense, because industries are classified according to goods and services they produce, whereas tourism depends on the consumer's status. The TSA partitions industries into tourism and non-tourism activities, so tourism's direct contribution to the economy can be measured on a consistent basis with 'traditional' industries.

Tourism GDP represents the total market value of Australian produced goods and services consumed by visitors after deducting the cost of goods and services used in the process of production. Tourism accounted for $32.0 billion of total Australian GDP in 2000-03, an increase of $1.1 billion from 2001-02. The 3.6% growth in 2002-03 compares to a growth of 5.4% in total GDP (current prices).

Tourism contributes significantly to employment and Australia's exports. Tourism industry share of total employment declined slightly in 2002-03 to 5.7%, compared with 5.9% in the years 1997-98 through 2000-01. Tourism contributed 11.2% of total good and service exports in 2002-03, the same as 2001-02. During 2002-03, domestic visitors generated 77% of tourism industry GDP, and international visitors 23%. Industries which accounted for the largest share of tourism gross value added were: air and water transport (14.9%); accommodation (11.1%); cafe, restaurant and takeaway food outlets (10.0%); and other retail trade (8.5%). These shares are very similar to 1997-98.

Contact Dianne Bourke on Canberra (02) 6252 7243 or email <dianne.bourke@abs.gov.au>.

ABS@ has:

• all ABS publications from 1998 onwards in pdf format,
• 2001 Community Profiles at all geographic levels,
• time series spreadsheets in Excel format,
• and datacubes in SuperTable format, which allow users to construct tables to suit their requirements.

For further information contact Heather Burns, Manager, ABS Information Consultancy Section on 03 9615 7976 or email: <heather.burns@abs.gov.au>. Email is the preferred mode of contact.

ABS Victoria offers practical, informative and relevant training to help develop your statistical skills. Courses can also be tailored to suit your needs or additional programs can be developed as required.

Quality Informed Decisions.

This course introduces the concept of 'wholistic quality' through the use of a data quality framework for a statistical collection. The framework ensures that users of statistics are able to assess whether the statistics are fit for their intended use. This course provides a framework to evaluate the quality of available data sources, and use this knowledge in the decision-making process.

Course Length: 2 days
Course Dates: 18 - 19 November, 2004
Course fee: $550 (lunch provided)

For further information or to register, please contact Maxine McDermott on Melbourne (03) 9615 7080 or email <maxine.mcdermott@abs.gov.au>.

VSAC is a major forum for statistical liaison between Victorian Government Agencies and the ABS. The following group of departmental representatives meet 2-3 times each year.

Departmental Representatives

Department of Treasury and Finance
VSAC Chairperson
Vin Martin 9651 6470

Department of Premier and Cabinet
Mark Burford 9651 2486

Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development
Patrick Webb 9651 9349

Department of Education and Training
George McLean 9637 3758

Department of Human Services Victoria
Dr Robert Brazenor 9616-6111

Department of Justice
Roslyn Kelleher 9651 1515

Department of Infrastructure
Fotios Spiridonos 9655 8536

Department for Victorian Communities
Dr David Adams 9208 3838

Dept of Sustainability and Environment
John Hanna 9655 6548

Dept of Primary Industries
Gary Stoneham 9637 8344

ABS Victoria
Vince Lazzaro 9615 7345

Contact Points for ABS Victoria

Dial-a-Statistics
1900 986 400 ($0.77 per minute)

National Information and Referral Service
Telephone: 1300 135 070
Fax: 1300 135 211
email: <client.services@abs.gov.au>

Library and Information Services
Level 5, CGU Tower, 485 LaTrobe Street
Melbourne Vic 3001

Postal Address
GPO Box 2796Y
Melbourne Vic 3001

ABS Website
<www.abs.gov.au>

Regional director
ABS Victoria
Vince Lazzaro
Telephone: (03) 9615 7345
Fax: 03 9615 7387
Email: <christine.stomps@abs.gov.au>

State Government Liaison Officers
Neil McLean
Telephone: (03) 9615 7463
Fax: (03) 9615 7002
email: <neil.mclean@abs.gov.au>

Antonella Caruso
Telephone: (03) 9615 7860
Fax: (03) 9615 7002
email: <antonella.carusso@abs.gov.au>

Statistics Victoria Editor
Alan Page
Telephone: (03) 9615 7899
email: <alan.page@abs.gov.au>

Spread the news electronically

Copies of Statistics Victoria are available free for electronic dissemination. There are two ways to access an electronic copy of the newsletter:

1. Elect to receive your copy of this newsletter in PDF format by contacting Alan Page on (03) 9615-7899 or email <alan.page@abs.gov.au>. The ABS encourages further dissemination of this newsletter through email, or by its placement on your organisation's intranet.

2. Go to the ABS web site at <http.//www.abs.gov.au>. Choose 'News & Media' from the menu bar, then go to 'Newsletters'. You can access current and previous copies of Statistics Victoria, as well as many other ABS newsletters.