1. ABOUT THE ABS
1.1 OUR PURPOSE
The ABS purpose is to inform Australia’s important decisions by partnering and innovating to deliver relevant, trusted and objective data, statistics and insights.
1.2 OUR ROLE
The ABS is Australia’s national statistical agency, providing trusted official statistics on a wide range of economic, social, population and environmental matters of importance to Australia.
The ABS also has an important leadership role, coordinating statistical activities and collaborating with official bodies in the collection, compilation, analysis and distribution of statistics. In addition, the ABS provides technical advice and assistance to the Australian and state and territory governments in relation to statistics and also develops standards for statistics.
As part of its legislated functions, the ABS has a role to play in maximising the use of public data for statistical purposes. For more information on the six functions of the ABS, as set out in the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act 1975, please see Appendix B which outlines the ABS’ enabling legislation.
1.3 OUR VALUES
We uphold the Australian Public Service Values:
- Impartial - we are apolitical and provide the Australian Government with frank, honest and timely advice which is based on the best evidence available
- Committed to service - we are professional, objective, innovative and efficient. We work collaboratively to achieve the best results for the Australian community and Government
- Accountable - we are open and accountable to the Australian community under the law and within the framework of ministerial responsibility
- Respectful - we respect all people, including their rights and heritage
- Ethical - we demonstrate leadership, are trustworthy and act with integrity in all we do.
1.4 OUR CULTURE
The ABS is a trusted, highly respected and capable national statistical organisation. Its people rise to challenges, demonstrate high standards of professionalism and technical expertise, and build and maintain the organisation’s reputation for excellence.
Central to this success has been the strength of our culture, which binds us together as an organisation and shapes the way we operate every day. The excerpt in
Appendix C from
ABS: Our Culture (2018–2021) sets out our cultural aspiration. Our intent incorporates the cultural dimensions of our ABS Transformation goals, and extends beyond them in light of the recent insights into our cultural challenges. It is also mindful of our anticipated future operating environment.
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