Media release –
Queensland
Census celebrates NAIDOC Week in QLD and reminds people to identify their origins5 July 2016 | QLD/47As part of NAIDOC Week, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) will celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders culture, history and achievements at events throughout Queensland (QLD), and encourage people to make sure their voice is heard on Census night Tuesday, 9 August 2016. QLD Census Director, Caroline Deans, says NAIDOC Week is an important time to talk with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about the Census and why it’s important Indigenous people take part and identify their origin. “We know that language and stories passed on from one generation to another maintains Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders’ connection to country and helps people identify themselves,” Ms Deans said. “The Census also provides an opportunity for every Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander person to identify their origin and be counted - which helps planning for important services like schools, healthcare and housing in communities across Australia.” Indigenous Engagement Manager, Edwina Yasso, said she’s looking forward to talking with community members about the Census and how people can make sure their voices are heard. “During NAIDOC Week we will be visiting rural and remote communities between Mount Isa and Brisbane, to talk Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about the Census and like NAIDOC theme Songlines, leave a legacy behind for future generations to benefit,” Ms Yasso said. The Census will be conducted in remote communities during July and August 2016, with Remote Area Mobile Teams already working with Indigenous communities to ensure they’re counted in the Census. From early August, households in urban areas will receive a letter which provides information on how to complete the Census online. It also provides information on how to request a paper form. The information provided in the Census is kept private and not shared with anyone, including the Police, Housing, Australian Taxation Office (ATO) or Centrelink.
Key 2016 Census dates:
Media inquiriesNational Media Manager (P) 1300 175 070 (E) media@abs.gov.auThe ABS Privacy Policy outlines how the ABS will handle any personal information that you provide to us. |