What you need to know about the Census Test

Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics counts every person and household in Australia. This is called the Census of Population and Housing.

The Census is a snapshot of Australia and tells the story of how we’re changing. It’s used to estimate Australia’s population, distribute government funds, and plan services for individuals, families and communities.

The Census asks questions about your age, country of birth, cultural background, living situation, work and education.

Australia’s next Census will be held in 2026, and planning is currently underway. 

Your participation is important and will help us improve the next Census. The Census informs decisions about transport, schools, health care and infrastructure, helping to plan local services for individuals, families and communities. For example:

• Libraries use Census data to understand languages spoken in local communities so they can stock in-language books for their readers.
• Supermarkets use Census data to inform the products to stock for their customers, including international foods.
• Broadcasters use Census data to decide which in-language radio and media services are needed for their listeners.

In July, selected households will get instructions on how to take part in the Census Test.  

Some households will be asked to complete the Census Test online and some will get a paper form.  

When filling in the Census Test, you need to include everyone who is staying in your home on Census Test night. This includes international visitors and babies. 

Not all households in each area will be asked to participate in the Census Test. If you live in the selected areas and don’t get a letter or form from the ABS, there's nothing you need to do.

You can start as soon as you get instructions, if you know where you’ll be staying on Census Test night.  

We’re testing our paper and online forms as part of the Census Test. If you get a paper form, we would appreciate you filling it out, even if you would normally complete this online.  

However, if you get instructions to complete online but would prefer a paper form, you can request one.  

Once you’ve completed your form, return it to us using the Reply Paid envelope that will be provided. The Census Test form is in English only. You can ask family or friends to help with your Census Test. 

There's support available if you need help to complete your Census Test. 

• Call us on 1800 181 227 to speak to someone in English.
• For help in your language, call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450.

Your personal information is protected by law and isn't shared with anyone else including other government agencies such as Department of Home Affairs, the Australian Tax Office and Centrelink.

The information you provide in the Census Test is confidential. Your information will be kept secure and we will not share or release information about you, your family, your household or business in a way that will identify you. 

Your data is protected by the Privacy Act 1988 and the secrecy provisions of the Census and Statistics Act 1905.

To find out more about how we keep your information safe, visit our website privacy page.

You can view and download translated versions of this guide in these five languages: 

• العربية / Arabic
• Italiano / Italian
• 简体中文 / Simplified Chinese
• 繁體中文 / Traditional Chinese
• Tiếng Việt / Vietnamese.