The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) published a press release earlier this week, advising that it is seeking submissions on what information should be included in the next Census of Population and Housing, which takes place every five years. The ABS is inviting community groups and peak bodies to make submissions about what information they need from the Census, which is one of the largest and most important statistical collections undertaken by the ABS.

Considerations when determining the topics for the 2026 Census will include the need for the data, the number of questions to answer, the cost of processing responses, and whether other data sources could meet these needs. The ABS will review feedback received since the 2021 Census topics were finalised, shortlisted topics, and feedback from recent consultations or reviews.

The first phase of the consultation process is open until 28 April 2023. The ABS will make a recommendation to the Australian Government on the topics that could be included in the next Census in 2024 with the final decision being made by the government..

Find out more.