Census · 11 August 2026

Australia’s national Census is six days away — every household must participate

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Every person in Australia on census night — residents, renters, owners, students, travellers, self-employed — is legally required to complete the Census. The data shapes funding for schools, hospitals, transport, housing and services for the next five years.

In a nutshell: The 2026 Australian Census of Population and Housing takes place on 11 August 2026, conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. It is the nineteenth national Census and includes new questions on gender, sexuality and other updated topics. Every person in Australia on census night must complete a form — failure to do so without a valid reason is an offence. Forms can be completed online before census night or on the night itself.

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What they’re saying

The new questions have prompted some public debate; the ABS has published guidance on how answers are used and protected. Privacy protections are strong by law.

The Census is the single most important data collection in Australia, underpinning billions of dollars of government spending allocation for the next five years.

Census date and legal obligation confirmed by ABS and Wikipedia. New question topics confirmed by ABC News November 2025.

2026 Australian census

Do I care?

Visit abs.gov.au/census. You can use the code on your paper form or create an account. Every person in the household must be included.

Tuesday 11 August: complete your census form online at abs.gov.au/census — it takes about 10 minutes per household.

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