The 2026 national Census will take place on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
The Census is a nationwide survey that counts everyone in Australia and collects information about who we are and how we live.
It is compulsory to participate in the Census.
Support to help you understand and complete the Census is available.
Summary
Census night will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026, and everyone in Australia is asked to participate. We’ve taken a closer look at the Census to find out what it is, why it’s important, and how we can make sure we’re counted.
Every five years, Australians are asked to take part in the Census. This is more than just another form to fill out. The Census plays a vital role in shaping the future of all our communities, and with the 2026 Census fast approaching, we thought we should unpack some of the details.
What is the Census?
The Census is a nationwide survey that counts everyone in Australia and collects information about who we are and how we live. It captures details about each of us, our households and dwellings, providing a clear snapshot of the population.
In 2026, Census night will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026, and everyone in Australia on that night must be included in a Census form.
Why is the Census important?
The Census is more than just a data collection exercise—it directly influences decisions that affect our everyday lives. The Information collected helps governments, businesses, and community organisations plan for:
Transport and roads
Schools and education services
Hospitals and healthcare
Housing and infrastructure
Local community services
By participating, you help ensure your community receives the services and funding it needs. Participation is also compulsory under the Census and Statistics Act 1905, and you can be fined for failing to take part.
How to complete the Census
From late July 2026, households will receive instructions on how to complete the Census, and if you know where you’ll be on Census night you can complete it straight away.
Most people will:
Receive a letter with a Census number and temporary password
Complete the form online
If you would prefer to complete a paper form, you can request one. Some households, especially in regional or remote areas, may automatically be sent paper forms.
Simply sign in to myGov and subscribe to Census updates. You will then receive a notification in your myGov inbox that will enable you to access the Census online.
Information you’ll need
To complete your Census form, you’ll need details about:
Everyone staying in your household on Census night including family members, house mates, and visitors
Children and babies
Anyone who usually lives there but is away
Information collected includes:
Basic details (name, age, date of birth)
Cultural background (ancestry, language, religion)
Education and employment
Health and wellbeing
Housing details (rent, mortgage, vehicles)
Some questions (such as gender and sexual orientation for people aged 16 and over) are optional.
Completing a separate Census form
If you want to fill in your Census separately from your household, you’ll be able to request a Census number so you can complete it online or get a paper form. You can find out more here
Support to complete the Census
The ABS provides a wide range of support to ensure everyone can participate, including:
For remote Indigenous communities, Census staff will visit between July and September, conducting face-to-face interviews to ensure culturally appropriate participation.
The Census is a snapshot of Australia that helps shape the future of our country. By completing your Census in 2026, you’re helping build better services, stronger communities, and get a clearer picture of who we are as a nation in 2026.
Don’t forget to complete the Census on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
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