PREFACE
The purpose of this document is to initiate public consultation regarding the nature and content of the 2001 Census. The Census and Statistics Act 1905 requires that the " ... census shall be taken in the year 1981 and in every fifth year thereafter, ... ". The ABS is preparing now to undertake the next census on Tuesday 7 August 2001.
The census is the largest statistical collection undertaken by the ABS and one of the most important. There are two broad objectives that underpin the census. First, to accurately measure the number and key characteristics of people in Australia on census night and the dwellings in which they live. Second, to provide timely, high quality and relevant data for small geographic areas and small population groups, to complement the rich but broad level data provided by ABS surveys.
This publication describes the proposed procedures for the 2001 Census and the topics that might be included. I invite users of census data and others to comment on any aspect of the conduct and content of the census, using the Submission Guidelines & Authorisation document included with this publication. Submissions are sought by 30 April 1998.
The 2001 Census coincides with the centenary of the Australian Federation and a new millennium. These are events of great historical significance and the results from the census will be a valuable national resource.
Further publications will seek views about other aspects of the census, including the output strategy, and the classifications, products and services to be produced.
W. McLennan
Australian Statistician
NOTE: The Submission Guidelines and Authorisation Form is on the first page of the attached document (pdf).
