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Media release –
National

Census - what's in it for me?

13 July 2011 | CO/25

The Census of Population and Housing on Tuesday, 9 August 2011 is less than a month away.

This is the 16th Census and marks 100 years of national Census taking in Australia.

Census information is used for a range of planning purposes by all levels of government, private institutions and community organisations. It’s used to determine such things as where infrastructure and community services are located.

By creating an accurate profile of Australia, the Census gives us a snapshot of who we are as nation.

Head of the Population Census program, Paul Lowe says all Australians benefit from an accurate Census count.

“The value to the community of Census information is many times greater than its cost. Population estimates based on Census data are used to determine the allocation of around $45 billion worth of funding to the States and Territories,” Mr Lowe says.

“Small businesses, religious organisations, charities and local councils all use Census data in their planning.”

More than $4,000 per person was given to the states and territories in the 2010-11 budget. This was worked out using Census data.

More information is available online at www.abs.gov.au/census or call the Census Inquiry Service on 1300 338 776

Key Census dates:

  • 28 July 2011 – eCensus opens to the public.
  • 29 July 2011 – Distribution of Census forms begins.
  • 9 August 2011 – Census night.
  • From 10 August – Collection of Census forms.
  • June 2012 – The first results from the 2011 Census will be released.

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