Community News

A little over a month to go until the 2016 Census of Population and Housing

With a little over a month until the 2016 Census of Population and Housing, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is finalising its plans to reach more than 24-million people, from over 10-million dwellings across 8-million square kilometres. The Tuesday, 9 August Census is predicted to be the largest online event in Australia’s history, with two-thirds of the population expected to complete the form digitally, helping to make this Census the most efficient, cost effective and environmentally friendly ever. Head of the 2016 Census Program, Duncan Young, said it’s exciting to see the enormous operation beginning to take shape after more than four years of planning. “We’ve recruited about 39,000 extra staff and built the systems in anticipation of millions of people logging on to their computers, tablets or smartphones to complete the Census. It will be our moment to pause and play a part in helping shape the future of Australia’s education, health, transport and infrastructure,” Mr Young said. “Over its 105 year history, the Census has helped to guide trillions of taxpayer dollars to every corner of Australia, so everyone has an interest in making sure they’re counted, ensuring Australia remains a world leader in Census participation and accuracy.” Over the next two months the ABS will participate in events around the country to promote the Census and answer questions about how the Census will change in 2016. “From late July to early August the majority of households across the country will receive a letter from the ABS, addressed ‘To the Resident’, Mr Young said. “The letter will include a unique login code and instructions on how to complete the Census online. “For those people who can’t complete the Census online or wish to complete a paper form, this can be easily requested. “The Census is compulsory and can be completed securely in around 30 minutes for one person. It’s an easy way for Australians to take a moment and make a difference, so remember get online on August 9.” Background information on the 2016 Census of Population and Housing Data collected from the 2016 Census will support funding decisions for services and infrastructure including housing, transport, education, industry, hospitals, and the environment. Data from the 2011 Census revealed that Australians come from more than 200 countries, speak more than 300 languages, belong to more than 100 religious groups and work more than 1,000 occupations. The digital first approach of the 2016 Census is expected to save 327 tonnes of paper material, 230,000 kilometres of travel and $100 million of taxpayer funds. Key 2016 Census dates: • Late July to early Aug 2016 – Instruction letters and forms will be delivered • 9 August 2016 – Census night • Mid Aug to late Sept 2016 – Field visits • April 2017 – The first results from the 2016 Census released.