2901.0 - Census Dictionary, 2001  
ARCHIVED ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 24/04/2001   
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Contents >> Definitions >> Social Marital Status (MDCP) - Glossary

Social Marital Status (MDCP)

This variable is a person variable derived from Relationship in Household (RLHP). Social Marital Status (MDCP) shows a person's 'social' marital status and is applicable to all persons aged 15 years and over.

Social marital status is the relationship status of an individual with reference to another person who is usually resident in the household. A marriage exists when two people live together as husband and wife, or partners, regardless of whether the marriage is formalised through registration. Individuals are, therefore, regarded as married if they are in a de facto marriage, or if they are living with the person to whom they are registered as married.

Where information about same-sex couples is volunteered in the relationship question (Question 5), it is included in the family coding and classified as a partner in a de facto marriage. (See Relationship in Household (RLHP)).

The term 'not married', as used in this classification, means neither a registered nor a de facto marriage. This includes persons who live alone, with other family members, and those in shared accommodation.

See also Registered Marital Status (MSTP), Marital status.



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