Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics 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 your Census form as soon as you receive your instructions, if you know where you’ll be on Census night.
The Census form asks questions about your age, cultural background, living situation, work, and education. Every answer matters – helping governments of all levels understand what Australian communities need now and into the future.
Census data is used to inform decisions about transport, schools, health care, infrastructure, and business. It also helps plan local services for individuals, families, and communities.
If you or someone you know would like a paper census form, you can request one by calling the 24-hour automated paper form request service on 1800 130 250 or by visiting census.abs.gov.au/help.
Find out more with the links below.
- Census Video: Watch the Census Video
- Learn More About Census 2026: Census Information
- Help Completing a Census Form: Census Form Assistance
