The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has designated Tuesday, 11 August 2026 as Census night. This nationwide count, conducted every five years, requires everyone in Australia, including tourists, international students, and temporary visa holders, to complete the Census form either online or on paper.
The data collected informs policy decisions across healthcare, education, transport, and infrastructure. This year's Census introduces new questions on gender identity and sexual orientation for respondents aged 16 and over.
Completing the Census is mandatory under law. Refusal can result in fines of up to AUD 364 per day, while providing false information carries penalties of up to AUD 3,640.
As Census night approaches, the ABS is urging the public to be wary of scams. The agency has confirmed it will never request banking details, passwords, or offer rewards for completing the Census.
Listen to the full story on the SBS Indonesian podcast.
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