Reforming the Australian Bureau of Statistics (Media Release)

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MEDIA RELEASE
19 February 2015
22/2015
Reforming the Australian Bureau of Statistics

A statement by Australian Statistician David Kalisch:

The ABS continually looks for improved ways to do our business, in order to deliver high quality, timely information that Australia needs. The ABS also needs to transform its business and a major investment in infrastructure is required to enable this. The ABS has been consulting with key stakeholders and discussing these matters with the Government.

The ABS is committed to the Census. However, the Census in its current form only provides a snapshot of Australia on one day every five years, and it takes some time for key information to be released after Census night.

The ABS has been considering options for transforming our people statistics for some time, with the aim of producing data on the economic and social conditions of Australians more frequently and in a more timely manner. The ABS sees significant value in better and more frequent data.

The ABS has made recommendations to Government, after consultation with stakeholders, that deliver better information. The ABS would continue to produce high quality quarterly population counts for state and territories, and deliver annual high quality population counts for regional areas.

The ABS is also consulting with Government and other stakeholders about options for broader reform of the Australian statistical system, including more effective arrangements for other government agencies that undertake statistical activities.

Government investment in the ABS’ critical statistical infrastructure would enable the ABS to better manage quality risks and make better statistical use of information available to governments and the community. This will position us to better deliver the information that Australia needs now and into the future.

We welcome Government decisions on these matters in due course.


    Media Note:
    • When reporting ABS data you must attribute the Australian Bureau of Statistics (or the ABS) as the source.
    • Media requests and interviews - contact the ABS Communications Section on 1300 175 070.