The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) today launched the 2021 Census campaign, with national advertising starting on Sunday 4 July.
The campaign will support the roll-out of Australia's 18th Census, which is being held on Tuesday 10 August.
The 2021 Census message is that 'Every stat tells a story'. The campaign will include tailored communication in up to 29 languages to help ensure Australia's multicultural communities are informed and ready to participate.
Chris Libreri, Census General Manager, said the 2016 Census showed that our diversity is increasing.
"With nearly half of Australians either born overseas or with one or both parents born overseas, it's important for our multicultural communities to have information about the Census in their language, in particular new migrants who will be doing the Australian Census for the first time.
"Our advertising features real-life examples of how Census data has benefited multicultural communities. This includes community services for new migrants and activities to keep older people healthy and connected," Mr Libreri said.
Many people don't realise that information collected in the Census, such as country of birth and languages spoken at home, helps inform important services and support for migrant and refugee communities across Australia.
"That's why everyone who is in Australia on Census night needs to complete-it doesn't matter if you're a citizen, a resident, or just visiting," Mr Libreri said.
Census staff are working with local community groups and stakeholders across the country to be Census-ready.
"We've focused on hiring field staff who speak languages other than English and reflect the diversity of the communities they'll be working in," Mr Libreri said.
The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) is available on 131 450 to assist those requiring additional in-language support. TIS provides access to interpreters who speak more than 160 languages.
This year, people can start their Census as soon as they receive instructions if they know where they'll be on Tuesday 10 August.
