One week until Census night

With only one week to go before Census night on Tuesday 10 August, the Australian Bureau of Statistics is reminding people that they can complete their Census as soon as they receive their instructions.

Andrew Henderson, Census Executive Director and National Spokesperson said, “This means you don’t have to wait to complete your form on Census night. We know people expect flexibility and convenience, so this makes it easier for people to fill in their Census when it best suits them.

“Households across the country have started receiving Census letters with instructions on how to complete their Census online, or how to order a paper form.

“In some areas, households will receive a paper form and we’ll supply a reply-paid envelope for its return.

“If you are yet to receive your Census instructions, or would like to complete a separate Census form to the rest of your household, you can get a Census number or request a paper form on the Census website.

“We want to make sure everyone is included in the Census, so we have provided a range of help and support options to assist people in completing the form, including on the Census website and over the phone.

We also have braille forms, audio instructions, video guides with closed captions, and translation services available,” Mr Henderson said.

Census data is a snapshot of who we are and how we are changing. It’s used to inform important decisions about social and economic services for individuals, families and communities.

If you won’t be home on Census night, it’s important that you visit the Census website to report that the home will be vacant. You need to indicate whether the residents are staying elsewhere or travelling.

For more information visit www.census.abs.gov.au.

What is the Census?
The Census, held on Tuesday 10 August 2021, is a snapshot of who we are and tells the story of how we are changing. It is one of the largest and most important statistical collections undertaken by the ABS.

How will people complete their Census?
People will be able to complete the Census online, on their mobile device or on paper.

A number of options will be available for people who need assistance to complete their Census form including help from Census staff, and phone and online help.

Census staff will be in remote communities to help people complete the Census during July and August.

What is new with the Census?
People can complete their Census as soon as they receive their instructions if they know where they’ll be on 10 August. They don’t have to wait until Census night.

There are two new questions in the 2021 Census—the first changes to questions collected since 2006. The new questions are on long-term health conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes, and on defence force participation.

Conducting the Census in a COVID environment
We expect most people will complete their Census online with no in-person contact from us. More information on conducting the Census in a COVID-19 environment is available at Keeping the community safe during COVID-19.

How do people know if the Census instructions are legitimate?
Census instructions will feature the official Australian Bureau of Statistics logo and the 2021 Census branding. Further information about what the public can expect from us is available at Avoiding scams and false information.