Once every 5 years, Australia stops to take stock of itself. The Census is a snapshot of who we are, where we live and how our communities are changing — and it only works if everyone's in the picture.
Here in Sydney, your answers directly shape how we plan. Census data tells us where to put funding, services and infrastructure, and when our communities needs them most.
That's why we want everyone counted: First Nations people, multicultural communities, people experiencing homelessness, people with disability and older people. The more complete the picture, the better we can plan for you.
If you need a hand, there's help available: translated information, accessible support, pop-up info booths and in-person sessions where someone can fill in the form with you.
Who needs to be on the form
Everyone. Every household, every person in Australia on Census night including visitors, international students and babies.
When it happens
Tuesday 11 August. Instructions land in letterboxes from late July. If you already know where you'll be on Census night, you can fill it in as soon as your instructions arrive — no need to wait.
How to complete it
Online, on paper or with help from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Privacy
What you tell the Census is confidential and protected by law. It's never shared with anyone, including other government agencies.
Every answer helps build a clearer picture of what Australia needs, now and in the years ahead.
Published 14 July 2026
