Agricultural Census: coming to Australian farms in 2006, 2006

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MEDIA RELEASE

March 15, 2006
Embargoed: 11:30 AM (AEST)
22/2006


Agricultural Census: coming to Australian farms in 2006


In June 190,000 businesses will take part in the 2005-06 Agricultural Census.

The Agricultural Census is Australia's biggest collection of agricultural statistics. It is conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) every five years and collects production data from primary producers around the country.

Gemma Van Halderen, Head of the Agricultural Program at the ABS, says it is beneficial for farmers from all industries to take part in the Agricultural Census because the data provides important information about agricultural production across Australia.

"We strongly encourage people to complete their Census forms because the information they provide can assist people such as policy makers and industry bodies to make informed decisions about the agricultural sector that could affect them and their industry," said
Ms Van Halderen.

"The data from the Agricultural Census helps Australia understand changes that have occurred in the sector to measure the contribution that agriculture makes to the economy," said Ms Van Halderen.

The Agricultural Census forms are sent through the mail. Forms will arrive by the end of June. Farmers are asked to complete the forms and return them within two weeks. Assistance will be available through a help line that will be printed on the form.