A guide to doing the Australian Census

Australian Census is on 11 August; learn about its importance and what you need to do.

Published on the 30 July 2026

Students using their phones and laptops at a table in the library

What exactly is the Australian Census?

You know how there are all these in-depth statistics and information that the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has about Australia and its population? That data comes from many different surveys, and the Census is the largest and one of the most important surveys of them all.

As per the ABS, the Census is the most comprehensive snapshot of the country taken every five years. Unlike most surveys, which only a small sample of people participate in, the Census involves everybody in the Australian population and it takes place on a designated night.

As it so happens, the upcoming Census will take place on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.

Really? Everybody in the population?

Yes. Seriously.

Why should I do the census?

Great question! There's understandably a bit of trepidation about this, especially for those who moved to Australia from another country.

This is the only survey of its kind that provides information about the entire country, and the data collected from the Census tells an incredibly detailed story about Australia and how we're all changing.

The information and insights gained from the Census are then used by community groups, not-for-profit organisations, businesses and government bodies to make important decisions, such as funding for transport, schools, health care and infrastructure.

As for how this would benefit you personally, this is one of those times where your answer truly matters.

Every answer helps the ABS understand what Australia needs now and into the future. Having the right numbers means the right services can be provided in your community. Some great examples of Census data helping improve local communities include launching the 'Healthy Deadly Kids' program to teach primary school kids the importance of nutrition, mental health and physical activity, and Safe Work Australia implementing improved safety processes and procedures to ensure workplaces are safer for workers.

Is the Census compulsory?

Yes, it is. As per SBS News, the Census must be completed by every person in Australia on Census night.

This includes any visitors, regardless of how long they've been in the country or how long they plan to stay.

Can I get fined for not completing the Census?

Unfortunately, yes.

According to the ABS, if a person does not complete the Census, they will receive a formal written direction to do so. If they refuse, they can be prosecuted and fined up to $364 a day.

Knowingly providing false or misleading statements is an offence and can result in a fine of up to $3,640.

Do temporary visa holders, like international students, need to complete the Census?

Yes, any migrants, refugees and people on temporary visas - including international students - must also complete the Census.

But don't stress about sharing private information that could be leaked or be used in nefarious ways. Any confidential information, such as names and addresses, can't be accessed by any authorities, such as police or immigration agents.

If you're worried that your English isn't strong enough to complete the Census, useful information is available online via the ABS website in 26 different languages to help you complete the questionnaire.

People who speak a language other than English can contact the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National), which provides access to interpreters who speak more than 150 languages.

How do I complete the Census?

As mentioned before, Census night is Tuesday, 11 August 2026, and households will receive instructions on how to complete the Census before then.

For most people, these instructions will come via a letter with instructions to complete the Census online. If you'd rather do it the old-fashioned way, you can request a paper version of the Census.

As for how to complete the Census, each household gets a form to complete. It's not an 'everyone needs to complete one' situation, so typically only one person per household needs to complete the Census for everyone under that roof come Census Night.

Separate forms can be requested for privacy reasons.

Completing the Census online

Households will get a letter or paper form with a unique 16-digit Census number and a temporary nine-character password. Use these to log in and complete your Census online.

Some households will get a letter with instructions to get a Census number online. Use these to get a Census number, log in and complete your Census.

Completing the Census paper form

If you requested or received a paper form, simply follow the instructions on how to complete it. Once complete, mail it back in the 'Reply Paid' envelope provided.

The paper form allows for up to six people in your household. If there are more than six people at your address on Census night, you can either complete the Census online or get an extra paper form.