Census Corner
Your community is counting on you
In the lead up to the 2006 Census, the ABS has revamped its procedures for the employment of temporary collection staff.
With close to 30,000 positions available, the logistics of recruiting Census Collectors and Area Supervisors is a massive undertaking. In previous years, tens of thousands of application forms had to be printed and distributed, then each application evaluated and positions filled.
However for the 2006 Census the ABS will be taking applications online. The ABS has developed a real-time automated system that will make applying quicker and easier as well as reduce the administrative, logistical and environmental problems associated with thousands of hard copy applications. Applicants will also be able to apply by phone. If either of these methods pose any problems for potential applicants, a hard copy form will continue to be made available.
With tight labour market conditions in many areas it can be difficult to attract sufficient numbers of staff. Attracting sufficient applicants is most difficult in remote areas and the inner cities.
The ABS has employed a small number of people to work on the tests that are undertaken prior to each census. As well as testing field and processing procedures, these tests have also allowed the recruitment system to be tested.
The ABS is appealing to people to make a positive contribution to their community and be involved in this significant and nationally important event. The ABS looks to recruit workers that reflect the community in which they will work, so are looking to employ people from across the spectrum including Indigenous persons, older persons, and members of all ethnic and cultural groups.
The recruitment campaign will be the first step in a large and co-ordinated public awareness campaign informing the public of the importance of the Census.
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