2026 Census – 11 August 2026 – Information and Support Available

2026 Census – 11 August 2026 – Information and Support Available

Source:NSW Community Engagement

Dear community representatives,
 

Thank you for your ongoing support and contributions to the community. The Community Engagement Network has collated this newsletter of important information from across the Australian Government that may be of interest to yourself and members of your community. 

Please feel free to share content from this newsletter with members of your community, but in the interests of ensuring the information remains accurate, please do not make any alterations to the content

In this fortnight’s edition, you can find information on the following:

News & Updates

·    2026 Census – 11 August 2026 – Information and Support Available

·    2027 Australia Day Community Events Grant Program opening 27 August 2026

·    Bringing someone from overseas for events

·    National campaign to address racism in workplaces

·    Australian Government Response to the Special Envoy’s National Response to Islamophobia

·    Scam Alert: Individuals Impersonating Home Affairs Officers

·    Don’t fall into a money trap

·    Got a question, complaint, feedback or suggestion for the department?

·    If it doesn’t feel right, flag it. 

Upcoming events

·    Additional Webinar Session: Visa Options for International Graduates – 11 August 2026

Other information

·    Useful information in your language

·    Contact Us

·    Other useful links

2026 Census – 11 August 2026 – Information and Support Available

Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) counts every person and household in Australia. This is called the Census of Population and Housing.

Census night is Tuesday 11 August 2026. You can complete the Census as soon as you get your instructions, if you know where you’ll be on Census night.

Most households will get a letter in the mailbox with instructions to complete online. Some households will get a paper form or visit from Census staff.

The Census form asks questions about your age, country of birth, cultural background, living situation, work and education. Every answer matters to help us understand what Australia needs now and into the future.

The Census is compulsory. Everyone in Australia on Census night must be included on a Census form, no matter their residence status. 

Why the Census matters

The Census is the most comprehensive snapshot of the country and tells the story of how we are changing. The Census is the only data collection activity that provides information for the entire country, including for small geographic areas and small population groups.

Community groups, not-for-profit organisations, businesses, and governments use Census data to make important decisions.

Census data informs planning for schools, health care, transport, infrastructure, and business. It’s also used to help plan local services for individuals, families, and communities.

How the Census benefits you

In the Census, every answer matters to help the Government understand what Australia needs now and into the future. Having the right numbers means the right services can be provided in your community.

For example:

• Playgroup Australia uses Census data to understand changing family needs and plan where and when playgroups are offered.
• Street Side Medics uses Census data to understand local communities and deliver mobile healthcare to people experiencing homelessness.

You can read more about how Census data can help your community in

Census stories

If you need help with completing the Census Form, the ABS will be offering in-person support at Pop-up Hubs across Australia. Find one near you at

Get Help Near You

Alternatively, visit the

Census website to learn more about the Census help and support language support services and Information for migrants refugees and international visitors