Social Marital Status (MDCP)
This variable is a person variable derived from Relationship in Household (RLHP). Social Marital Status (MDCP) is applicable to all persons aged 15 years and over who were usually resident and present in the household on Census Night. It is not applicable to persons in non-private dwellings.
Social marital status is the relationship status of an individual in terms of whether she or he forms a couple relationship with another person living in the same usual residence, and the nature of that relationship. A marriage exists when two people live together as husband and wife, or partners, regardless of whether the marriage is formalised through registration. Individuals are, therefore, regarded as married if they are in a de facto marriage, or if they are living with the person to whom they are registered as married. Note: married de facto also includes persons who report de facto, partner, common law husband/wife/spouse, lover, girlfriend or boyfriend (See Marital status: married de facto).
Where information about same-sex couples is volunteered in the relationship question (Question 5), it is included in the family coding and the person is classified as a partner in a de facto marriage. (See Relationship in Household (RLHP)).
The term 'not married', as used in this classification, means neither a registered nor a de facto marriage. This includes persons who live alone, with other family members, and those in shared accommodation.
See also Registered Marital Status (MSTP), Marital status.
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