It's Census time, folks. Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics counts every person and household in Australia. The Census is the most comprehensive snapshot of the country and tells the story of how we are changing. It includes around 10 million households and over 25 million people.

The data collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics helps inform decisions that impact you and your community, from schools, healthcare, transport and infrastructure to local services. Additionally, Census data tells the Australian Bureau of Statistics about the economic, social and cultural make-up of the country.

When you need to complete the Census

Census night is Tuesday 10 August 2021 and this year you have several days to fill in your form. By early August, you will receive instructions on how to take part by post. This year you can complete your Census as soon as you receive your instructions if you know who will be home on Census night. This is different to past years when you had to fill in your form on Census night.

Complete your Census online

In addition to completing your Census using the paper form you have the option to complete your Census online, to do this you need:

your Census number and temporary password from your letter or paper form  a device or computer Helpful links

Get help to complete your form (accessibility and inclusion) Ways to fill in your form Help to complete your form online Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Find out more or complete your Census

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