NATSTATS CONFERENCE 2010


MEASURING WHAT COUNTS

The Australian Bureau of Statistics will be hosting another NatStats conference at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour on 15 - 17 September 2010.

NatStats 2010 will bring together an array of leaders and high profile commentators, researchers and policy makers from all levels of government, media, academia, community and business. NatStats was initiated to assist in the development of a collaborative approach to national statistics. It focuses on various issues surrounding qualitative and quantitative research, which have been highlighted by key government initiatives.

The conference will build on the success of the first NatStats conference held in 2008, where around 480 delegates attended. A major outcome of the 2008 conference was the tabling of a statistical declaration to guide the development of a national statistics strategy for Australia in the 21st century.

The overall theme for the conference is "Measuring what counts: economic development, wellbeing and progress in 21st century Australia." The conference will be opened officially on 16th September with a plenary address by Dr Ken Henry and will focus on four main themes:

1. Challenges facing Australian Society: Issues, Policy and Information

2. Australia in the Global Economy. Do we measure up?

3. Improving Australian's Wellbeing

4. Measuring Progress: From Theory to Practice.

NatStats 2010 will aim to build on the enthusiasm and passion generated by delegates at NatStats 08 and will offer delegates an opportunity to:

• Explore the impact of expected demographic, environmental and global economic change and their implications for governance, policy, productivity and the well-being of Australia's urban and rural communities.
• Identify the improvements needed in our national statistical system to understand and respond to these challenges.
• Identify improvements needed in the current statistical frameworks for measuring progress and development to ensure Australians’ wellbeing.

An exciting program is being developed and will address a range of issues regarding national statistics. If you would like to hear more about NatStats 2010 Conference, or have any suggestions, please contact Annette Hants on (02) 6252 6936 or email natstats@nss.gov.au.