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 | MEDIA RELEASE | |
| July 25, 2006 | Embargoed: 11:30 AM (AEST) | SA31/2006 |
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Census data helps your community: Collectors hit Coober Pedy |
In just over two week’s time, on Tuesday 8 August 2006, more than 20.5 million people across Australia will be counted in the National Census. In South Australia, Census forms are about to be delivered to more than 670,000 households across the state by the Australian Bureau of Statistics army of Collectors.
While most people are aware that they need to fill in a Census form on Census night, many may not be aware of the ways in which Census data is used to benefit their local community.
Mike McGrath, Regional Director, Australian Bureau of Statistics, South Australia, said:
“The Census gives us a snapshot of what is happening in local communities around the country once every five years. This information is invaluable in helping us to understand our communities and the characteristics within particular areas.”
Mr Trevor McLeod, Chief Executive Officer of the District Council of Coober Pedy, urges everyone in the local community to fill out their Census form correctly.
"The Census provides the opportunity for everyone in Coober Pedy and surrounding areas the chance to stand up and be counted. It is very important for the Coober Pedy community that you complete your 2006 Census form indicating Coober Pedy as the place you usually live.
“It is estimated that each person identified as a resident of Coober Pedy means about $5,000 worth of grants and funding for our community.
“There is no question that Census data is valuable to our society. This important data gives us information about the make up of our communities, such as, how many people are living where, ages of our population and whether people need assistance in their day to day lives.
“Not only that, it assists to provide accurate statistics regarding youth numbers, unemployment and indigenous population amongst many other things. The more accurate the population numbers, the greater the impact on the range of funding we have and could receive. Through this information we are able to build a better future.”
Over the last few years in the local area, Census data has been used:
· To apply for the Regional Health Service funding application. The success of securing this funding provides extended Primary Health services for Coober Pedy and surrounding areas. This funding resulted in the development of positions such as: Community Midwife, Mental Health Worker, Drug & Alcohol Worker, Diabetes Education Worker and Aboriginal Education Workers.
· To apply for additional funding for disadvantaged groups in the area.
Census Collectors will begin delivering Census forms from 28 July. They will return to your household to collect forms from 9 August to 28 August.
It is important that everyone is counted in the Census. By completing a Census form on 8 August, you can help plan for a better Australia, and a better community.
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