Australia’s 2026 Census: What you need to know to ensure you’re counted

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has begun preparations for the 2026 Census, the nationwide survey that happens every five years. The census is legally required for all residents, and its results determine how billions of dollars in federal and state funding are distributed for schools, hospitals, roads, and other services. The ABS plans to make the 2026 Census largely digital, building on the 2021 approach where over 60% of forms were completed online. New measures include enhanced data security and options for those without internet access, such as paper forms and phone assistance. The agency is also testing new questions about topics like gender identity and long-term health conditions, after consulting communities and experts. The ABS stresses that personal information is kept confidential by law and cannot be shared with other government agencies or private companies. With Australia’s population changing rapidly—including growth in multicultural communities and an aging population—the 2026 Census aims to provide an accurate snapshot to guide policy for the decade ahead. Officials urge everyone to take part, as undercounting can leave communities underfunded for years.