"No job too big or small" says the NIRS
If you are ever stumped by a client's need for statistical information don't forget the ABS NIRS. The NIRS, the National Information Referral Service, is the gateway to the ABS for many clients says Team Leader Silke Damson.
Whether it's a university student with an assignment, a new small business owner requesting demographic data and industry wide statistics, or a landlord requiring the latest Consumer Price Index, the NIRS can help - and its free, says Silke.
"Our team of highly trained professionals are friendly, enthusiastic and prepared to tackle any enquiry that comes their way. We mainly work with callers to assist them to meet their information needs using self help options. Our consultants will work with callers to help them locate information on the ABS web site or through other ABS channels."
Silke points out that there are a large number of subject matter areas within the ABS. Enquiries can range from 'what's the population of Indooroopilly?' to 'can you tell me how many light globes were imported into Australia last year?'."
"We always strive to assist clients, even when they have rather unusual questions. Someone once required the following vital statistic 'How tall is John Howard?', another wanted to know how many words does the average pen write and yet another desperately needed to know the average ATM withdrawal by postcode. These clients are then astonished when we politely explain we don't collect that data."
Silke says that clients often say: 'but you're the ABS - you know everything!' Call the NIRS on 1300 135 070
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