Value of the Census

The Census is the largest data collection in Australia and provides some of the country’s most valuable statistics. It helps us understand what we need now, and into the future.

Community groups, not-for-profit organisations, businesses and governments use Census data to make important decisions. 

Census data informs planning for schools, health care, transport and infrastructure. It's also used to help plan local services for individuals, families and communities.

Having the right numbers means the right services can be provided in your community.

Information from the Census helps communities, governments and businesses across the country make informed decisions.

Census data helps inform services that improve the lives of people, families and communities. 

Census night is on Tuesday 11 August 2026.

Most households will receive instructions in the mail, when it’s time to complete the Census.

Most households will get a letter with instructions to complete online. Some households will get a paper form. 

Some people living in remote areas and people experiencing homelessness will have help to complete their Census from one of our Census field staff.

Census field staff may contact households when dropping off Census forms or when conducting reminder visits. 

Census field staff are identifiable by their Australian Bureau of Statistics photo identification card and also carry a yellow satchel.

If you subscribe to Census updates through myGov, you’ll get updates and a link to the online form sent to your myGov Inbox when it’s time to complete the Census.