2021 Census questions and date announced

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) today announced that Census night for the next Census will be 10 August 2021.

The Census measures the number of people in Australia and their key characteristics. Census data is used extensively by governments, organisations and the community to plan for services and infrastructure such as roads, childcare, hospitals and schools across the nation.

The Australian Parliament, through the tabling of Regulations, approves the topics to be included in the Census. 

For the 2021 Census, the ABS will add new questions on health conditions, and Australian Defence Force (ADF) service. Questions on internet access in households will no longer be asked, given increased mobile internet usage on personal devices outside the home. 

These are the first significant changes to the information collected in the Census since 2006. 

The changes allow the Census to collect data on long-term health conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes, to inform health policy and planning for community services. 

Collecting information about ADF service will provide a better understanding of the circumstances of Australia’s veteran community and support better provision of services for this group. 

The ABS keeps all information collected in the Census private and confidential. Under the Census and Statistics Act 1905, no identifiable information can be released. 

Further information is available at www.abs.gov.au/census