Matty J chats with ABS Communication Officer Haidee Allan about the census this year and why it's important for everyone, especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people living in remote communites, to be involved and be heard.
This year, the ABS is encouraging people to start their Census as soon as they receive instructions if they know where they’ll be on Tuesday 10 August.
In remote areas, the Census is conducted between July and August. This allows time for remote teams to cover large areas and visit every household to help people complete.
“Our network of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff across Australia will be working closely within their own communities. We recognise their understanding of the language is important for helping our mob to be included in the Census,” Haidee said.
There are many resources available to help people participate. They are available at www.census.abs.gov.au/indigenous The materials and resources feature the artwork ‘Our Story. Our Future.’ which was created by proud Wiradjuri, Wotjobaluk, Yuin and Gumbaynggirr artist Luke Penrith and Badu Island artist from the Torres Strait Naseli Tamwoy. The artwork tells the story of how the ABS works with communities to see, hear and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and experiences in our national story.
“Our voices are stronger and louder together. Encouraging our mob to be counted in the Census ensures we’re heard. “I encourage everyone to participate in the 2021 Census and help tell our story,” Haidee said.
How will people complete their Census?
People will be able to complete the Census online, on their mobile device, or on paper.
People living in cities and regional areas will either get a letter with instructions on how to complete online, or a paper form. You can start as soon as you get instructions, if you know where you’ll be on Census night, Tuesday 10 August.
There will be a number of options available for people who need assistance to complete their Census form, including help from Census field staff, and phone and online help.
Census staff will be available in remote communities during July and August 2021. Where possible, they'll be people who live in the community. Our staff will do face-to-face interviews with people living there.
What is new with the Census?
People will be encouraged to complete their Census as soon as they receive their instructions if they know where they’ll be on 10 August. They don’t have to wait until Census night. The ABS will also introduce new questions in the 2021 Census—the first changes to questions collected since 2006. The new questions are on long-term health conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes, and on defence force participation.
