Embargo: 11:30 am (Canberra Time)
Have your say on Australia’s 2021 Census topics
The five-yearly Census provides critical data and information to support important Australian decisions by governments, community organisations, businesses and individuals.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is reviewing the information collected in the 2021 Census of Population and Housing to ensure it best meets our nation’s needs and informs Australia’s important decisions.
A public consultation, launched today through the ABS website, seeks input from data users, community groups and organisations on their data needs and the most useful information to collect in the 2021 Census.
Population and Social Statistics General Manager Dr Paul Jelfs said, "It’s important that our nation’s largest statistical collection remains relevant and meets users’ needs".
"Submissions can be easily made via the ABS consultation hub," Dr Jelfs said.
The ABS will assess any changes suggested through the submission process based on evidence and demonstrated need. We will seek to minimise the burden on the community by managing the number and complexity of questions asked in the Census.
"It’s wonderful to see quality 2016 Census data being used widely and this consultation process is about ensuring our 2021 Census data is even more valuable and useful," Dr Jelfs said.
"The Census adds to the wealth of knowledge from other ABS data collections," Dr Jelfs said
The ABS has been undertaking a comprehensive review of the operation of the 2016 Census and has identified areas of improvement for 2021. As we work towards 2021, the ABS will share our approach to how people can participate in the Census, our approach to ensuring privacy and security of information and how we provide the final Census results.
Submissions on 2021 Census topics close on 30 June. Following analysis, the ABS will publish preliminary findings from this consultation process then make recommendations to the Australian Government.
Details on how to participate, including instructions for making your submission and frequently asked questions are available online at http://www.abs.gov.au/census-consult
The Census of Population and Housing: Consultation on Content 2021 publication provides detailed information on the topics.
For access to the latest Census data, please visit www.abs.gov.au/census.
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