Everything You Need to Know About the 2021 Census

Make sure you’re counted.

Hey hey, it’s Census time again and 'cos it’s been a cheeky five years since the last survey of every household around the country, we thought it’s probably best to give you a quick update on how it all works, why you gotta do it, and what the deal is.

So, whether you’ve completed the Census for yourself before or this is your first time, it’s always best to get all the deets on what’s involved ‘cos it’s coming up real soon.

Here’s everything you need to know.

Why is the Census so important?

If you’re too young to remember your parents filling out the last Census and aren’t sure what it’s all about, it’s essentially a giant survey of every Aussie in every household around Australia.

The Census asks questions like your age, country of birth, ancestry, religion, language used at home, education and even work.

It’s really important that everyone in your household completes the Census ‘cos it helps the federal government figure out how they’re going to spend taxpayer dollars.

To the everyday person the Census seems like a lot of really interesting numbers and statistics on the Aussie public, but to the government and other organisations it’s super important for our future.

The Census also helps governments, businesses and non-for-profits across the country make important decisions about planning, healthcare, infrastructure, transport and education.

It also helps inform much needed services that improve or assist the lives of millions of people, families and communities.

This year in particular, the data from the Census will provide valuable insights on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the lives of Australians—so it’s very important.

When is the Census this year?

This year the Census is scheduled for Tuesday, 10 August 2021, but you can complete the online version of the survey as soon as you receive your instructions, which have already started arriving in some people’s letter boxes.

If you fail to complete your Census after Census night your household will receive a reminder letter and then visits from Census staff.

It’s also important to keep in mind that the Census is compulsory, so if you don’t complete the Census you (or your ‘rents) could wind up facing some hefty fines.

This is also the second time the Census will be conducted mostly online, so fingers crossed we don’t have another #CensusFail like we did in 2016 (touch wood).

How can I complete the census?

When it comes to actually completing your Census, there are a few super easy ways to get started.

Firstly, you will have to wait to receive your instructions letter in the post, but once you have that you can get to filling out all the deets. You can then complete the Census online at your own pace.

If you’re not super techy you can instead request a paper survey. All you have to do is lodge a request with the Bureau of Statistics and they’ll send one through. You can do that here.

In some cases, yourself or a member of your household may need extra assistance to complete the survey, so if you are looking for support you can get in contact with Census staff who can show you how to fill out the form.

There will also be contact-free ways of support like online videos and tutorials, as well as social media instructions and the Census call centre.

Plus, there are language services available for anyone who needs translating and interpreting services through the National TIS on 131 450.

(Image: Australian Bureau of Statistics)

There are also some situations where you might not be in the country or at home in time to complete the Census. In this case you can let Census staff know through their online self-service form and complete the form at the address where you are staying or request a visit from staff to remind you to complete the Census after the date.

And that’s it! While it all looks like a lot of information, the Census is a lot easier than you might think.

Have a chat with your parents, guardians, siblings or roommates—whoever you live with—to clear up any questions or concerns you might have.

Plus, don’t forget to enjoy the process! You’re being counted as a part of a really important survey. Your responses could make a huge difference.

Header Image: Australian Bureau of Statistics