2901.0 - Census Dictionary, 2011  
ARCHIVED ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 23/05/2011   
   Page tools: Print Print Page  
2011 Census Dictionary >> Glossary >> Indigenous special enumeration strategy

Indigenous special enumeration strategy

The ABS has implemented procedures tailored to the enumeration of Indigenous people living in discrete communities since the 1976 Census. The 2006 Census procedures built on this experience with the 2006 Census Indigenous Enumeration Strategy (IES). This strategy ensured that procedures were tailored in response to each Indigenous community's requirements.

For the 2011 Census a range of improvements are being implemented across the full range of Census operations to improve coverage, accuracy and quality of the data. At a broad level, the range of improvements to the IES are to provide for:
  • more detailed planning;
  • earlier, more detailed and ongoing engagement;
  • integrating the strategy more fully into the mainstream operation so that coverage can be ensured;
  • reorganisation and increased flexibility of the field operation to ensure that for each area the appropriate enumeration methodology is used and documented, including targeted responses in areas where there are significant issues impacting enumeration;
  • increases in the number of field staff positions;
  • systems and procedures to enhance the collection of management information and to allow for closer management of the field operation and the tracking of progress;
  • a greater level of support to Indigenous people who need assistance in completing their form particularly in urban areas; and
  • reducing the overall timing of remote Indigenous enumeration, to counter the effects of a longer enumeration period.
Prior to enumeration, Local Engagement Managers will be employed in select areas, with an aim of undertaking local engagement and intelligence gathering, to work with the Census Management Unit to lay the groundwork for a successful enumeration by working with local organisations to raise awareness, and to build networks that can assist in identifying applicants for the new positions.

In certain Indigenous communities and some remote towns, an interview form designed to be appropriate to Indigenous culture is used. This part of the strategy is used in discrete communities where communities indicate the need due to the cultural or language situation. In these cases the staff employed to undertake the enumeration will train and work with people from the community so that the people from the community can conduct the interviews.

In other pre-defined areas, with high Indigenous populations, Census Collectors will provide a greater level of support in completing Census Forms by offering to conduct an interview. Assistance will also be available from Special collectors skilled in Indigenous languages and culture if required.

See also Interviewer household form.





Previous PageNext Page