The 2026 Australian Census is scheduled for Tuesday, 11 August 2026. This nationwide event aims to gather comprehensive data on Australia's population and housing, providing insights that inform decisions on schools, healthcare, transport, and infrastructure. Participation is mandatory for everyone in Australia on Census night, including visitors and visa holders.
To complete the Census, most households will receive a letter with instructions to fill out the form online. For those who prefer, paper forms will be available upon request. In areas where there's a strong preference for paper forms, they will be delivered directly to households. Additional support, such as Census field staff and translated materials, will be provided to assist individuals in completing the form.
The Census will introduce new questions on gender and sexual orientation, reflecting contemporary Australian society. These updates aim to capture a more accurate picture of the community's diversity.
Data from the 2026 Census will be released in three phases: the first release in June 2027, covering most topics; the second in October 2027, focusing on employment-related data; and the third in early to mid-2028, including more complex topics. This phased approach ensures that the data is processed and made available in a timely manner.
For more information or assistance, visit the Australian Bureau of Statistics website or contact their support services.