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Media release –
National

100 days until 100 years of Census taking in Australia

2 May 2011 | CO/18

There’s only 100 days to go until the 2011 Census that marks 100 years of national Census taking in Australia.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) will conduct the Census of Population and Housing on Tuesday 9 August.

Since the first nationally coordinated Census in 1911, Census data has played an important role in helping to shape Australia.

Today, Census data continues to help define who we are, where we live and our key characteristics.

Head of the Population Census program, Paul Lowe says the 2011 Census is significant for all Australians.

“The centenary of Census taking in Australia is a national achievement and something to be proud of. For 100 years Australians have participated in the Census, providing decision makers with accurate information to help plan for our nation’s future,” Mr Lowe says.

“From 1971, the ABS also began collecting Census information from all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and this is a particular focus for the 2011 Census.”

The Census is the largest peace time operation in Australia. Currently 29,000 Census Collectors are being recruited to deliver and collect 14.2 million Census forms to Australia’s 9.8 million households.

Mr Lowe is reminding community minded people that this is their last opportunity to make a difference to their local area.

“Collectors underpin the success of the Census and are the life blood of the operation,” Mr Lowe says.

“Being a Collector is a fantastic opportunity to help your neighbourhood while earning some extra money.

We are also recruiting Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders in a range of positions across communities. Local people are best placed to help us get the Census right, especially in discrete communities,” Mr Lowe adds.

Census Collectors can earn between $1,300 and $2,800 for the casual position and will be employed from 1 July until 8 September.

Applicant information kits are available online at www.abs.gov.au/census or call 1800 420 182.

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