In the Census, every answer matters. It’s important that we have accurate Census data to help plan for Australia’s future.
The Census is compulsory under the Census and Statistics Act 1905. Everyone in Australia on Tuesday 11 August 2026, including Norfolk Island, and the Territories of Cocos (Keeling) Islands and Christmas Island, must be included on a Census form.
Your participation ensures the Census delivers a complete picture of Australia, helping governments and communities plan for the future. The Census helps inform decisions about transport, schools, health care, infrastructure and business. It also helps plan local services for individuals, families and communities.
If you do not complete and submit your form, we will contact you to encourage your participation first. If you still do not respond, you may be served a direction in writing to complete the Census. This is a formal legal instruction to complete the Census.
Failing to comply with a direction is an offence under the Census and Statistics Act 1905. If you do not complete the Census when directed, you can be prosecuted and fined up to $364 a day. Knowingly providing false or misleading statements or information is also an offence and can result in a fine of up to $3,640.
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics
