Data Integration Project Register

Information about the data integration projects the ABS is involved in. Information will be updated quarterly, or more frequently if required.

Released
13/12/2021

Overview

The ABS is involved in a number of data integration projects that maximise the value of public data and statistics. Search the following categories for a short description of all projects.

Data assets – building enduring integrated data assets for policy analysis, and research.

Demography – understanding the characteristics of Australia’s population.

Environment – gaining insights into Australia’s environmental challenges.

Health and Education – gaining insights into the health and education of Australians.

Industry and the Economy – understanding Australian businesses, industries, and the economy.

Migration – examining the characteristics of migrants and the impacts of migration in Australia.

Statistical methodology research – investigating improvements to statistical collections, processes, and outputs.

The ABS respects your right to privacy and is committed to keeping your information safe and secure in all of the data integration projects we are involved in. To learn more about how your information is protected, check out the Privacy, Secrecy and Information Security page.

For enquiries about this release, please email data.services@abs.gov.au.

Data Assets

Released
13/12/2021

The Person Level Integrated Data Asset (PLIDA)

Commencement date: 01/06/2015
Project status: Ongoing

Project Summary

The Person Level Integrated Data Asset (PLIDA) (formerly MADIP) is a secure data asset combining information on healthcare, education, government payments, income and taxation, employment, and population demographics (including the Census) over time.

Underpinning the PLIDA data asset is the ‘Person Linkage Spine’. The spine aims to cover all people who were resident in Australia at any point during a given reference period. The spine is kept separate from the main body of data, improving privacy and security. The spine and the PLIDA data asset are updated approximately annually.

Benefits

PLIDA shows how combining existing public data can be used to:

  • Inform policy development and better targeting of services, such as health and early childhood services, to people and communities who need them, and
  • Provide insight into the effectiveness of government programs to ensure they are delivering value to the Australian public.

Data Linkages to PLIDA

Only data that are reasonably necessary for an approved purpose are shared and used in PLIDA. Data that has an enduring linkage to PLIDA is regularly updated for ongoing research.

Other sources of data have been explored for inclusion in PLIDA or for once-off linkage to PLIDA data for specific projects. For a list of once-off linkages to PLIDA, please refer to PLIDA data and legislation. To find out more about specific projects that use data in PLIDA, please refer to the relevant categories in this publication.

Enduring Linkages to PLIDA

This table describes the range of datasets that now have an enduring link to the PLIDA data asset. The periods of time (reference periods) for information in PLIDA datasets are shown by starting year. The PLIDA Modular Product describes the complete list of deidentified data items and reference periods available to approved researchers.

DatasetDescription
Australian Bureau of Statistics
Australian Taxation Office
Department of Health and Aged Care
Services Australia
Department of Social Services
Department of Education
National Disability Insurance Agency
State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages
Department of Home Affairs
Census of Population and Housing 2011
Census of Population and Housing 2016
Census data provides a rich snapshot of the nation and informs government, community and businesses.
Current ABS policy restricts the linking of data from more than one Census. This means data from multiple Censuses cannot be brought together for longitudinal PLIDA analysis. The exception to this is the Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset, which brings together a small sample of Census data exploring how Australian society changes over time.
Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset 2016The Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset brings together a 5% sample of Census data from the 2006, 2011 and 2016 Censuses. It contains information such as age, sex, country of birth, labour force status, as well as dwelling, household and family characteristics, across each of these Censuses.
Researchers can apply to use the ACLD for longitudinal PLIDA analysis for specific projects.
National Health Survey (2014-15, 2017-18)Information on Australian’s health and wellbeing such as medical conditions, health and lifestyle risk factors, mental health and use of health services.
Survey of Disability, Ageing, and Carers (2018)Information about people with a disability, older people (aged 65 and over) and their carers.
ABS Business Characteristics Survey (2005-06 to 2017-18) 1An annual survey providing estimates in business use of information technology, innovation, and a broad range of other non-financial business characteristics.

BLADE Core Dataset 2

  • Indicative data items
  • BLADE Locations data
  • Business Activity Statement
  • Business Income Tax
  • Pay As You Go
An economic data tool combining tax, trade, and intellectual property information with ABS data to provide a better understanding of the Australian economy and business performance over time. A limited set of BLADE information (generally from 2001 onwards) is available in PLIDA.

Personal Income Tax data:

  • Client Register (from 2006)
  • Payment Summary (from 2010-11 )
  • Income Tax Return (from 2010-11 )
Information about taxpayers’ occupation and income, employment payments and amounts withheld during a financial year, and all persons with a registered tax file number (TFN) for tax and superannuation purposes.
Single Touch Payroll (from 2020-2021)Information about employees' salaries and wages, pay as you go (PAYG) withholding and superannuation as reported through the Single Touch Payroll system.
JobKeeper (2020-2021)Information about JobKeeper subsidy payments to businesses affected by coronavirus (COVID-19).
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (from 2006)Information about the use of prescription medications & services subsidised under the PBS.
Medicare Benefits Schedule (from 2006)Information on the usage of Medicare subsidised health care services.
Centralised Register of Medical Practitioners (Provider Directory) (from 2011)Information about registered medical practitioners, including specialties.
Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) (from 2010)Information about COVID-19 and other vaccination status, including core demographics.
Medicare Consumer Directory (2006-June 2020)All persons with an active Medicare enrolment. This dataset was previously known as the Medicare Enrolments Database.
DOMINO Centrelink Administrative data (from 2009)Data Over Multiple Individual Occurrences (DOMINO) contains snapshots of the characteristics of recipients of government payments such as the Age Pension and JobSeeker (formerly Newstart Allowance). This dataset was previously known as Social Security and Related Information (SSRI).
Data Exchange (from July 2015)Program performance information that contains de-identified data on clients that receive social services including their demographics and services being delivered.
Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) (2009, 2012, 2015, 2018)Measures how well children in their first year of full time school are developing across 5 important domains.
Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program (AAIP) and Training Contracts (from 2006)Information on apprenticeships and traineeships, AAIP payments, and Trade Support Loan (TSL) payments.
Higher Education Information Management System Data (HEIMS) (from 2005)Information on higher education studies including course type, student status and study load.
Provider Registration and International Students Management System (PRISMS) (from 2006)Information on the course enrolments of overseas students.
Total VET Activity (TVA) (from 2015)Information about students and the Vocational Education and Training (VET) delivery activities of registered training organisations. This dataset is supplied by agreement with the Department of Education, the Office of the Student Identifiers Registrar and the National Centre for Vocational Educational Research.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) data (from June 2019)Information on primary disability, including services attained, by participants in the National Disability Insurance Scheme.
Death Registrations (from 2005)Information relating to registered death records from Australian States and Territories.

Migration data:

  • Visa information & Citizenship grants (from 2000)
  • Client information (from 1984)
  • Net Overseas Migration (NOM) Traveller data (from 2004)
  • Skilled Migration Points (from 2005)
  • Adult Migrant English Program data (from 2003)
Information about various migrant types, including permanent, skilled, temporary and other migrant programs, including their demographics and movement over time.

1. Business Characteristics Survey data is available for request. Use of the data is limited to the creation of flags indicating types of businesses or for the creation of new categorical data items only.
2. The ABS has enabled the integration of some BLADE datasets with information about employer characteristics to employee data in PLIDA. BLADE Core data is available for request. Use of Business Income Tax data is limited to the creation of flags indicating types of businesses or for the creation of new categorical data items only.

Publications/Results

The ABS maintains a catalogue of approved projects that use PLIDA data and other datasets. Information on these projects can be found here on the Data Integration Project Register, and also on the PLIDA/MADIP Research Projects page.

The PLIDA Modular Product can be used to explore patterns and trends in the Australian population and provide new insights into the development and evaluation of government policies, programs and services. Researchers affiliated with Australian Government or academic research organisations can apply for access to the deidentified data in the secure ABS DataLab.

PLIDA/MADIP Case Studies
This webpage presents four case studies highlighting the types of insights that were gained by analysing data from the evaluation phase of the PLIDA.

Privacy Impact Assessments

The ABS employs a privacy-by-design approach for PLIDA (formerly MADIP) and regularly assesses privacy risks. Privacy impact assessments conducted for PLIDA/MADIP and specific projects are published on the ABS Privacy Impact Assessments webpage, including:

  • 24/08/2021 – Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) data integration project
  • 20/11/2020 - Linkage of Cancer Institute of NSW data with the Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
  • 16/09/2020 - Jobs Related Data Integration Project
  • 29/11/2019 – Update to 2018 Privacy Impact Assessment – 2019 MADIP PIA Update
  • 28/08/2018 - Independent Privacy Impact Assessment - Linkage of National Health Survey 2014/15 with the Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
  • 04/04/2018 - Independent Privacy Impact Assessment – Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
     

Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

Commencement date: 10/10/2013
Project status: Ongoing

Project Summary

The Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) combines tax data about businesses with information from ABS surveys and other administrative data sources to enable a better understanding of the Australian economy through statistical analysis.

Benefits

Authorised researchers can use BLADE to study how businesses fare over time and the factors that drive performance, innovation, job creation, competitiveness and productivity.

Data CustodianDataset(s)
Australian Bureau of StatisticsBusiness Register extract (2001-02 to 2018-19)
Business Characteristics data (2005-06 to 2017-18)
Business Characteristics Survey: Management Capabilities Module variables (2015-16)
ABS Survey data: Business Expenditure on Research and Development (financial years 2004-05 to 2011-12, 2013-14, 2015-16, 2017-18)
ABS Survey data: Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development (financial years 2008-09, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2016-17)
ABS Survey of Research and Experimental Development, Government (financial years 2008-09, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2016-17, 2017-18)
ABS Survey Data: Economic Activity Survey (2006-07 to 2016-17)
Energy Water and Environment Survey (2008-09, 2011-12, 2017-18, 2018-19)
Australian Taxation OfficeBusiness Activity Statement (2001-02 to 2018-19)
Business Income Tax (2001-02 to 2017-18)
Pay As You Go (2001-02 to 2018-19)
Intellectual Property AustraliaIntellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data (2001-02 to 2017-18)
Department of Home AffairsMerchandise Exports data (2003-04 to 2018-19)
Merchandise Imports data (2003-04 to 2018-19)

Publications/Results

30/04/20 - Microdata: Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment, Businesses in Australia 2018-19 (cat. no. 8178.0)
TableBuilder product that enables counts of businesses by various characteristics that were active in the Australian economy in the 2018-19 financial year.

05/04/2019 - Research Paper: Approaches to Analysing Micro-Drivers of Aggregate Productivity, March 2019 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.164)
This research used BLADE data to explore methods of estimating firm contributions to aggregate productivity.

16/06/2016 - Data Integration Case Study - BLADE

10/07/2015 - Information Paper: Construction of the Expanded Analytical Business Longitudinal Database, 2001-02 to 2012-13 (cat. no. 8171.0)
This paper provides a summary of the methodology used to create the EABLD (now known as BLADE), the initial set of data included and a description of potential uses.

Linked Employer-Employee Database (LEED)

Commencement date: 12/11/2013
Project status: Ongoing

Project Summary

The Linked Employer-Employee Dataset (LEED) combines employer information and employee information into an enduring cross-sectional linked dataset. LEED capitalises on data already combined through the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE).

LEED can provide unique insights into labour market issues from both a supply and demand perspective and is used to inform labour productivity, firm profitability, job creation, and the effects of policies and business practices on both employees and employers.

This project builds on the outcomes of the LEED prototype (2013) and subsequent feasibility study in 2015 which demonstrated the value of the dataset. In 2018, the ABS developed the current LEED as an enduring data asset.

Benefits

The LEED enables more detailed analysis of the Australian labour market than was previously possible - across the three lenses of jobs, persons and businesses.

  • Jobs - provides information on the jobs held in Australia each year (more than 19 million in 2016-17), including new information about the composition of jobs and about jobs in small geographic areas.
  • Persons - supports detailed statistical analysis on an annual basis, as well as providing new insights on employment (such as multiple job-holding).
  • Businesses - provides further insights into topics such as job creation and destruction as industries change over time, and elements that assist in exploring the drivers of firm-level performance.

Due to the rich detail of the underlying data, the LEED enables analysis at small geographic areas, such as 2,288 Statistical Areas across Australia, as well as at Local Government Areas and Electoral Divisions. In the 2019 publication of Jobs in Australia, the ABS released Spotlight articles for each of Australia's Local Government Areas, which highlight key statistics about jobs.

The LEED underpins both the Jobs in Australia and Personal Income in Australia publications. Outputs from the LEED are an essential input into the quarterly labour accounts - a core ABS offering.

Data CustodianDataset(s)
Australian Bureau of StatisticsABS Business Register (2011-12 to 2016-17)
Australia Taxation OfficePersonal Income Tax (2011-12 to 2016-17)
Business Activity Statement (2011-12 to 2016-17)
Business Income Tax (2001-02 to 2016-17) Pay As You Go (2001-02 to 2016-17)

Publications/Results

17/12/2019 - Personal Income in Australia, 2011-12 to 2016-17 (cat. no. 6624.0.55.002)
Formerly Estimates of Personal Income for Small Areas, this release provides a comprehensive range of income indicators across small geographic areas. This publication is now based on the LEED, ensuring better consistency with Jobs in Australia.

27/09/2019 - Microdata: Jobs in Australia, 2011-12 to 2016-17 (cat. no. 6160.0.00.001)
Release of Jobs in Australia data through TableBuilder. This enables users to build their own customised tables from the Linked Employer-Employee Dataset microdata, including for State and Commonwealth Electoral Divisions.

01/08/2019 - Jobs in Australia, 2011-12 to 2016-17 (cat. no. 6160.0)
Jobs in Australia (JIA) provides aggregate statistics from the recently developed Linked Employer-Employee Dataset. It provides information about filled jobs in Australia, the people who hold them, and their employers. JIA provides data across 2,288 Statistical Areas as well as Local Government Areas.

04/04/2019 - Microdata: Jobs in Australia, 2011-12 to 2015-16 (cat. no. 6160.0.00.001)
Release of Jobs in Australia data through TableBuilder. This enables users to build their own customised tables from the Linked Employer-Employee Dataset microdata, including for State and Commonwealth Electoral Divisions. Update for 2016-17 data forthcoming.

18/01/2016 - Microdata: Employee Earnings and Jobs, Australia, 2011-12 (cat. no. 6311.0.55.001)
Employee Earnings and Jobs (EEJ) microdata is a 10% weighted sample of the linked employer-employee data that the ABS developed through the LEED Foundation projects and is available through the Data Lab.

11/12/2015 - Information Paper: Construction of Experimental Statistics on Employee Earnings and Jobs from Administrative Data, Australia, 2011-12 (cat. no. 6311.0)
This paper provides the background to the LEED Foundation projects, a description of the data sources, integration methodology and confidentiality process, summary of results, and limitations of the experimental statistics.

14/05/2015 - Research Paper: Use of a Prototype Linked Employer-Employee Database to Describe Characteristics of Productive Firms, May 2015 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.055)
This study uses a prototype linked employer-employee database (LEED) to analyse both employee and firm characteristics to identify factors that explain differences in labour productivity across firms and industries.

Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset (ACLD)

Commencement date: 11/10/2013
Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    The Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset (ACLD) combines a 5% sample of data from the 2006, 2011, and 2016 Censuses.

    Benefits

    Viewing the population over time highlights the effect of policies longer term. This allows for the study of the changing patterns in social and economic conditions at the individual level, gives insight into the pathways that tend to lead to particular outcomes, and how these pathways vary for different population groups.

    The ACLD has been used to investigate such questions as:

    • Were Australians who were unemployed in 2011 and had moved regions by 2016 more likely to be employed than those who had remained in the same area?
    • What are the characteristics of persons transitioning into aged care facilities? How do they compare to those that don’t go into aged care facilities?
    • What are recent school leavers up to?
    • How is family structure changing over time? What are the characteristics of persons who are transitioning into single parenthood?
    Data CustodianDataset(s)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics2016 Census of Population and Housing
    2011 Census of Population and Housing
    2006 Census of Population and Housing

    Publications/Results

    18/12/2019 - Australians' journeys through life: Stories from the Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset (cat. no. 2081.0)
    This analytical release highlights various journeys through life for Australians. Areas of analysis include employment, education and housing transitions. The most recent release explores the characteristics and transitions from 2006 to 2016 for Australians approaching retirement age.

    20/03/2019 - Microdata: Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset, ACLD (cat. no. 2080.0)
    This release provides information about the ACLD microdata available in TableBuilder and DataLab. It includes the original 2006-11 dataset published in 2013. The 2011-16 dataset was most recently updated in March 2019 and the three-wave (2006-11-16) data was also released in March 2019.

    20/03/2019 - Information Paper: Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset, Methodology and Quality Assessment, 2006-2016 (cat. no. 2080.5)
    This publication provides in-depth information about the sampling and linking methodologies, and linkage results, It includes information about the original 2006-11 dataset published in 2013, the 2011-16 dataset most recently updated in March 2019, and the three-wave (2006-11-16) data released in March 2019.

    26/02/2019 - Australians' journeys through life: Stories from the Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset (cat. no. 2081.0)
    This analytical release highlights various journeys through life for Australians. Areas of analysis include employment, education and housing transitions. The current release focuses on a series of interactive maps which enable users to choose a particular region and explore, in depth, the employment status of people who moved out of that region and of those who stayed.

    28/11/2014 - Census Data Enhancement project: An update, 2011 (cat. no. 2062.0)
    This publication summarises the outcomes of the 2011 Census Data Enhancement (CDE) project, including the creation of the ACLD.

    Demography

    Released
    13/12/2021

    Rename of MADIP to PLIDA

    The Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) was renamed the Person Level Integrated Data Asset (PLIDA) in 2023. Historical documents and projects retain their references to MADIP.

    Key data assets:

    Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset (ACLD)
    The Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
    (see: Data assets)

    2021 Census - Post Census Review

    Commencement date: November 2021
    Project status: Approved, not started

    Project Summary

    The Post Census Review (PCR), formerly called the Post Enumeration Survey, is run immediately following the Census of Population and Housing, and has been conducted for every Census since 1966.

    The PCR measures the overcount and undercount of the Census. This is achieved by linking PCR records to Census records to determine which persons in Census were counted once, which were counted more than once (overcount), and which were not counted at all (undercount).

    PCR requires a very high standard of linkage to produce accurate estimates, requiring personal identifiers (name, date of birth, address) from both PCR and Census. This is done within tight security provisions consistent with Census protocols. Personal identifiers are erased from all PCR environments per the time frames in the Census Privacy Statement. Only aggregate estimates are published from the PCR.

    Benefits

    The Post Census Review provides a critical component to 2021 Census rebasing of the Australian Estimated Resident Population (ERP).

    It also provides users with an assessment of the completeness of Census counts, allowing them to take this into account when using Census information; and independently evaluates the effectiveness of Census enumeration procedures so that improvements can be made for future Censuses.

    DatasetData Custodian
    2021 Census of Population and Housing
    2021 Post Census Review (September - October 2021)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    2020 Census Operational Readiness Exercise (ORE)

    Commencement date: October 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    A critical path to ensuring the success of the five yearly Australian Census is through large scale testing. The 2020 Census Operation Readiness Exercise (ORE), previously called the Census Dress Rehearsal, and its subsequent review, will provide the necessary data to support testing of Census linking procedures and systems, ahead of the main event in August 2021.

    Benefits

    Field tests are an important part of development for ABS collections. They provide feedback on systems, processes and respondent behavior that enables improvement of the collection and smoother participation for respondents.

    DatasetData Custodian
    2020 Census Operational Readiness Exercise (October 2020)
    2020 Post Census Review Operational Readiness Exercise (December 2020)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Census Person Asset and Contingency Research

    Commencement date: September 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will support the research required to develop and implement low-response contingencies to improve data that ABS provides to the community through the Census of Population and Housing.

    Low response contingencies will help us maintain high-quality Census data, even if an unexpected event occurs that impacts on the Census response. This research will involve several different approaches: 

    • Improving and repairing the Census with administrative data
    • Improving the linkage rate between Census and administrative data (MADIP)
    • Exploring how a 5% sample of 2011 Census data linked to 2016 Census data can be used to improve Census data quality.

    The integrated data from this project will be for internal ABS Census Program use in researching new methodologies in the lead up to the 2021 Census. To promote transparency of the work that is being conducted, some public-facing outputs will be produced, for example research articles and high-level communications. No data will be published.

    Benefits

    The Census of Population and Housing (Census) is one of the ABS’ most critical, legislated functions. High quality Census data is critical to informing the planning and delivery of Government and community services, business decisions and academic research.

    This research will support improvements to 2021 Census data, including in the event of an unacceptably low response

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Census of Population and Housing (2011 and 2016)
    Census Post Enumeration Survey (2016)
    ABS Address Register
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Proof of Concept for Crime and Justice Data Integration

    Commencement date: August 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) have established a project to enhance the suite of national crime and justice data collections to enable person-level data linkage, and to undertake data linkage with key justice, health and welfare services datasets.

    The initial phases of this project have linked together administrative datasets from Police, Criminal Courts, Corrective Services and Juvenile Justice criminal justice agencies across several Australian jurisdictions, in order to assess data linkage methodologies and test the development of an NCCJS Justice Spine which can potentially be linked to other datasets.

    Benefits

    This project will support the analysis of employment and financial outcomes of people who have come into contact with the criminal justice sector, addressing a key data gap highlighted by the Prison to Work report. It also tests the viability of using existing linkage methodologies to link crime and justice data with other administrative datasets.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010-11 to 2017-18)
    - Payment Summary (2010-11 to 2017-18)

    - Medicare Consumer Directory (2011 to 2016)

    - Social Security and Related Information (2012 to 2016)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office

    - Department of Health

    - Department of Social Services

    Prisoner Census
    - Tasmania (2013-14 to 2017-18)

    Recorded Crime
    – Offenders
    - New South Wales (2008-09 to 2017-18)
    - Tasmania (2013-14 to 2017-18

    Criminal Courts, Australia
    - Tasmania (2013-14 to 2017-18)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Tasmania Justice Department
    - Tasmania Police force
    - New South Wales Police force

    Exits from Income Support

    Commencement date: August 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project, led by the Department of Social Services, aims to build a broader picture of income support recipients’ pathways once they leave the system, and, if possible, the interventions that occurred in the lead-up to this outcome.

    Benefits

    This project will be used to better understand outcomes of recipients once they leave income support to assist with designing effective income support policies and employment programs. Linking administrative income support data to recent employment history, health and education data will provide insight into who needs more support in finding work.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010-11 to 2018-19)
    - Payment Summary (2010-11 to 2017-18)
    - ATO Client Register (2006 to 2020)

    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (2011 to 2020)
    - Medicare Benefits Schedule (2011 to 2020)

    - Medicare Consumer Directory (2006 to 2020)

    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative data (2006 to 2020)

    - Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Programme and Training Contracts (2006 to 2019)
    - Higher Education Information Management System Data (2005 to 2019)
    - Total VET Activity (2015 to 2019)

    - Death registrations (2007 to 2019)

    - Migration (2005 to 2018)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office
     

    - Department of Health
     

    - Services Australia
     

    - Department of Social Services

    - Department of Education, Skills and Employment
     

    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages

    - Department of Home Affairs

    Data Exchange (DEX) data (2015 to 2020)Department of Social Services
    Employment Services System (ESS) and Post-Program Monitoring Surveys (PPM) (2015-16 to 2018-19)Department of Education, Skills and Employment
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) – Core ABS Economic Units Model Level (2001-02 to 2018-19)
    - Indicative Items
    - Business Activity Statement (BAS)
    - Pay As You Go (PAYG)
    - Business Income Tax
    - Business Locations

    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

    Intergenerational Welfare Dependence

    Commencement date: October 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project, led by the Department of Social Services, aims to broaden the picture of the impact of intergenerational welfare dependence by investigating the relationship between a child’s social, health, education and employment outcomes and their parent’s use of income support.

    Benefits

    This project will provide policy makers across government agencies with detailed insights into the characteristics and protective factors associated with pathways out of childhood disadvantage, as well as the effect of geographical location on these pathways.

    It may also identify possible points of intervention, to guide the development of policy and support programs aimed at breaking the cycle of disadvantage, allowing the government to develop targeted interventions with the potential to reduce lifetime welfare spending.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (Census) (2016)

    - Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program (AAIP) and Training Contracts (2011-2016)

    - Death Registrations (Deaths) (2005-2017)

    - Higher Education Information Management System data (HIEMS) (2005-2016)

    - Migration data:
    • Visa information & Citizenship grants (2000-2018)
    • Client information (1984-2018)
    • Traveller data (2004-2018)
    • Skilled Migration Points (2005-2019)

    - Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) (2011-2016)
    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Schedule (PBS) (2011-2016)

    - Medicare Enrolments Database (MEDB) (2006-2016)

    - Personal Income Tax (PIT) (2010-11 to 2015-16)
    - PAYG Payment Summaries (2010-11 to 2015- 2016)

    - Social Security and Related Information (SSRI) (2009 - 2016)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business

    - Registrars of Births, Deaths & Marriages

    - Department of Education, Skills and Employment

    - Department of Home Affairs
     


    - Department of Health

    -Department of Human Services


    - Australian Taxation Office


    - Department of Social Services

    Transgenerational Data Set (TDS) extract (1995 to 2014)Department of Social Services

    Intergenerational Drivers of Entry into the Victorian Child Protection System

    Commencement date: 30/08/2019
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project will support the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services to identify intergenerational drivers of entry into the Victorian Child Protection system. It will provide new insights from Commonwealth data and will act as a proof of concept for linking Victorian Government data with Commonwealth data.

    The analysis will seek to answer the question: What factors influence children and young people entering the Child Protection system including out-of-home care before the age of 5.

    The research will identify socio-economic and demographic protective and risk factors that influence a child’s likelihood of interaction with the Child Protection system.

    Benefits

    This information will be used to design services to promote the safety, stability and development of vulnerable children, young people and their families.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
    - 2011 Census of Population and Housing
    - Social Security and Related Information (2009 to 2013)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Department of Social Services
    Victorian Linkage Map (1991 – Dec 2018)
    - Alcohol and Drug Information System (2006 onwards)
    - Birth Registry (1998 onwards)
    - Child Protection and Out of Home Care (1996 onwards)
    - Death Index (1994 onwards)
    - ChildFIRST (2008 onwards)
    - Dental Health Program Dataset (2011 onwards)
    - Disability Services (2015 onwards)
    - Family Services (2007 onwards)
    - Family Violence Services (2007 onwards)
    - Homelessness Services (2015 onwards)
    - Mental Health Community Support Services (2002 onwards)
    - National Disability Insurance Scheme Dataset (2013 onwards)
    - Public Housing Applications (1991 onwards)
    - Public Housing Tenancies (1991 onwards)
    - Public Mental Health Services (1993 onwards)
    - Sexual Assault Services (2007 onwards)
    - Victorian Admitted Episodes Dataset (1993 onwards)
    - Victorian Emergency Minimum Dataset (1993 onwards)
    - Youth Justice Data
    Victorian Department of Health and Human Services

    Social Housing Metadata for the ABS Address Register

    Commencement date: 26/10/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will combine social housing address lists with the ABS Address Register to create new social housing metadata that will enhance ABS collections, such as the Survey of Income and Housing and the Census of Population and Housing. These quality improvements for accuracy, coverage, and coherence of ABS statistical indicators (such as those used in the National Housing and Homelessness Agreement) will assist policy makers at Commonwealth and state level.

    Benefits

    Better measures of the performance of social housing policy will allow policy makers to develop more targeted and effective policies and services. This will contribute to the objective of all Australians having access to affordable, safe, and sustainable housing that contributes to social and economic participation.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Address RegisterAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Social Housing Address ListsState and Territory Housing Authorities

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mortality Project 2016

    Commencement date: 04/07/2017
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    Almost all deaths of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians are registered, but some are not identified and recorded as such when registered. Therefore, registration data underestimates the actual number of deaths and death rates and consequently their application can result in overestimates of life expectancy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. Hence the number of registered deaths needs to be adjusted before compiling life tables.

    This project linked the 2016 Census data with all deaths that were registered within one year following the Census to estimate factors for adjusting registered deaths. Adjusted deaths were used to compile life tables.

    Benefits

    Benefits of the project include:

    • A more accurate measure of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander life expectancy - a critical measure under the Closing the Gap agenda.
    • Life expectancy has been produced for three categories of remoteness compared to two in the previous release: Major Cities, combined Inner & Outer Regional, and combined Remote & Very Remote (keenly sought after).
    • Life expectancy by Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage was also produced for the first time.
    DatasetData Custodian
    2016 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Death Registrations (August 2016 – September 2018)State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages

     

    Publications/Results

    10/12/2018 - Linking Death registrations to the 2016 Census, 2016-17 (cat.no. 3302.0.55.004)
    This information paper describes the background and rationale for the 2016 Census to Death Registrations linkage project.

    29/11/2018 - Life Tables for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, 2015-2017 (cat. no. 3302.0.55.003)
    This publication presents life tables for male and female Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians for the reference period 2015-2017, for Australia, selected states and territories, Remoteness Areas and Index of Relative Socio-Economic Disadvantage.
     

    Publications on the 2011 Project:

    16/06/2016 - Data Integration Case Study: Life Expectancy

    09/03/2016 - Research Paper: Death Registrations to Census Linkage Project - A Linked Dataset for Analysis, Mar 2016 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.058)
    This paper describes the creation of the linked dataset and provides necessary background material and advice for potential users.

    15/11/2013 - Life Tables for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, 2010-2012 (cat. no. 3302.0.55.003)
    This publication presents life tables for male and female Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians for the reference period 2010-2012, for selected states and territories and Australia.

    15/11/2013 - Information Paper: Death registrations to Census linkage project - Key Findings for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, 2011-2012 (cat. no. 3302.0.55.005)
    This paper presents information from the 2011-12 project, and examined the differences in the reporting of Indigenous status in death registrations compared with Census records.

    28/08/2013 - Information Paper: Death registrations to Census linkage project - Methodology and Quality Assessment, 2011-2012 (cat. no. 3302.0.55.004)
    This paper details the methodology used in the linkage process, the outcomes of the project and the quality of the resultant datasets.

    Publications on the 2006 Quality Study:

    11/03/2010 - Research Paper: Linking Census Records to Death Registrations, Mar 2010 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.030)
    This paper builds on previously released papers, elaborating on the probabilistic data linking methodology used

    17/11/2008 - Information Paper: Census Data Enhancement - Indigenous Mortality Quality Study, 2006-07 (cat. no. 4723.0)
    This paper outlines the findings from the Indigenous Mortality Quality Study.

    17/11/2008 - Discussion Paper: Assessment of Methods for Developing Life Tables for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, 2006 (cat. no. 3302.0.55.002)
    This discussion paper highlighted the issues associated with compiling life tables and life expectancy estimates for Indigenous Australians.

    Census Post Enumeration Survey (PES)

    Commencement date: 12/10/2016 (PES 2016)
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    The Census Post Enumeration Survey (PES) has taken place shortly after each Census since 1966, in order to provide an independent measure of Census coverage. It determines how many people should have been counted in the Census, how many were missed, how many were counted more than once, and how many were counted in error.

    The PES:

    • Provides estimates of net undercount that are used to calculate population estimates for Australia and its states and territories
    • Provides users with an assessment of the completeness of Census data, allowing them to take this into account when using Census information; and
    • Independently evaluates the effectiveness of how a Census is run, so improvements can be made in future Censuses

    Benefits

    Accurate estimates of the resident population are required for a wide range of uses including:

    • The allocation of seats to States and Territories in the House of Representatives of the Australian Parliament
    • The distribution of Commonwealth payments to States and Territories
    • Planning and performance reporting
    • Demographic, social and economic research
    DatasetData Custodian
    Census of Population and Housing
    Census Post Enumeration Survey
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

     

    Publications/Results

    23/02/2018 - Census of Population and Housing: Details of Overcount and Undercount, Australia, 2016 (cat. no. 2940.0)
    This publication presents estimates of undercount and overcount for the 2016 Census, resulting from the 2016 Census Post Enumeration Survey.

    21/06/2012 - Census of Population and Housing - Details of Undercount, 2011 (cat. no. 2940.0)
    This publication presents estimates of net undercount for the 2011 Census of Population and Housing, resulting from the Census Post Enumeration Survey (PES).

    PES results from earlier Censuses can be found on the Past & Future releases tab of the publications above.

    Personal Income Tax and Census Data Integration Feasibility Study

    Commencement date: 01/06/2015
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project tested the feasibility of combining 2011 Census of Population and Housing and Personal Income Tax data, looking at the linkage rates and linkage accuracy to inform future projects.

    Benefits

    This project demonstrated the feasibility of linking nationally important datasets.

    DatasetData Custodian
    2011 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Personal Income Tax (2010/11 and 2011/12)Australian Taxation Office

     

    ABS and Department of Social Services Joint Data Integration Initiative

    Commencement date: 09/01/2015
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This three year data integration project by the ABS and the Department of Social Services demonstrated that combining Social Security data with ABS datasets can provide national statistical assets for policy related research and evaluation. It was a pre-cursor to the Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP), and helped inform various technical aspects of that project.

    This project produced additional information such as education and qualifications, work (including hours worked, occupation and industry), ethnicity, income, and housing with information about people who interact with the social security system. The statistics are experimental, given various limitations related to the linking and weighting of records. For more information, refer to Limitations section in “Microdata: Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset with Social Security and Related Information, experimental statistics, 2006-2011 (cat. no. 2085.0)”.

    Benefits

    This project helped to build the evidence base available to inform the development of policies to improve the well-being of Australians.

    DatasetData Custodian
    2011 Census of Population and Housing
    2006-2011 Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Social Security and Related InformationDepartment of Social Services

     

    Publications/Results

    21/09/2021 - Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET); more than a youth policy issue
    This paper builds on the authors' February 2021 working paper to investigate extending standard reporting of NEET to include all working age persons 15-64 years of age. A new three-category classification is proposed for the working age NEET population. The authors highlight the importance of collaborative data integration projects for social policy design and development.

    01/02/2021 - Not in Employment, or Training (NEET): More than a Youth Policy Issue
    This working paper uses analysis from this project to suggest that standard reporting misses out on information concerning 80 per cent of the working age NEET population in Australia. Combined with other demographic insights, these results have implications for welfare policy, and indicate a wider range of demographics should be considered under the NEET classification. This may also have implications for international reporting.

    23/08/2017 - Microdata: Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset with Social Security and Related Information, experimental statistics, 2006-2011 (cat. no. 2085.0)
    This experimental statistical release brings together data from the Department of Social Services' Social Security and Related Information with the 2006-11 ACLD. This publication provides information about the microdata available in TableBuilder and DataLab, and selected analytical insights including two infographics.

    Environment

    Released
    13/12/2021

    Agricultural levies sssessment for ongoing use in REACS and VACP

    Commencement date: February 2021
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project assesses the use of Levy Payers data to support ABS Agricultural Commodities, Livestock and Commodity Value surveys from 2019/20 onward.

    Levy Payers data is a relatively new source of unit-level data on Agricultural commodities available to the ABS. The data includes a record of the industry specific levies paid by businesses that buy, sell, process, produce or export agricultural produce. Information is currently available for a selected number of commodities (e.g. wheat, grains, grapes, sugar).

    The project will initially focus on REAC commodities including sugar, canola and wheat and on VACP crop value comparisons.

    Benefits

    Initial analysis for sugar and wheat has shown that levies data is a potentially rich, quality source of information that may improve the quality of ABS Agriculture collections. 

    Levies data also has the potential to reduce provider burden, particularly for farmers who have already supplied this information to government.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Rural Environment and Agricultural Commodities Survey (2019-20)
    Value of Agricultural Commodities Produced (2019-20)
    Wool Receivals, Purchases and Sales (2019-20)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Agricultural Levy Payers Database (2019-2020)Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE)

    Predicting the value and use of urban land

    Commencement date: 30 March 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    Land is a key asset, but one that can be challenging to value accurately. Building on a government-academic alliance between The University of Queensland, The University of Melbourne and the Department of Treasury and Finance, Victoria, this project proposes to address this by developing a comprehensive, robust and user-friendly set of modelling tools. These will be used to study land use allocation, infrastructure delivery and government taxation revenue.

    Benefits

    The modelling framework proposed will benefit society by:

    • Minimising risks in predicting property-related tax collections arising from land valuations;
    • Providing a robust empirical base on which to develop policy advice to government to optimise land use, infrastructure and housing taxation; and
    • Informing social and public policy, particularly for planning and urban design.
    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)
    - Indicative data items (e.g. State, ANZIC) (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Business Characteristics Survey (2005-06 to 2016-17)
    - Business Activity Statement (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Pay As You Go (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Business Income Tax (2001-02 to 2016-17)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office

    Integrated Property and Sales Valuation (PSV) and Planning and Permit Application (PPARS) dataset (2011-2018)Department of Treasury and Finance, Victoria Valuer-General Victoria
    Department of Land, Water and Planning, Victoria

    Farm-level Longitudinal Agricultural Dataset (FLAD)/Effects of Climate Variability on Australian Farms

    Commencement date: 21/06/2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will integrate government data on Australian agricultural businesses (farms) to establish an enduring data asset which could be used to inform a range of agricultural and environmental issues. For this project, the dataset will be used to develop new insights on the effects of climate variability and climate change on farms.

    Benefits

    Analysis of the integrated dataset could help to improve government drought policy programs and/or support development of private drought insurance markets. More effective drought policy programs would help to better target policy interventions to farmers in the most need and most likely to benefit in the long-term.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Farm-level Longitudinal Agricultural Dataset (FLAD) (2005/06 – 2016/17)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)
    - ABS Business Register (2005/06 to 2016/17)
    - Business Activity Statement (BAS) (2005/06 to 2016/17)
    - Business Income Tax (BIT) (2005/06 to 2016/17)
    - Pay As You Go (PAYG) (2005/06 to 2016/17)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Taxation Office
    Climate data 2005/06 to 2016/17 (publically available)Bureau of Meteorology

    Agricultural Census to BLADE 2015/16

    Commencement date: 29/03/2019
    Project status: Completed
    Completion Date: 30/06/2019

    Project Summary

    This project integrated Agricultural Census data with the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) to support the following projects funded under the Data Integration Partnerships for Australia (DIPA):

    1. The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) undertook analysis to explore the relationship between water availability and regional socio-economic and human health outcomes.
    2. The CSIRO undertook analysis of integrated data to support sustainable regional development in Northern Australia, by delivering specific insights for that region and developing methods for potential application to other regions.

    This project successfully demonstrated that Agricultural data could be integrated with BLADE and the processes that have been developed will be used to develop a substantially longer time series of Agricultural data on BLADE. This data will be known as the Farm Level Longitudinal Agricultural Dataset (FLAD) and will include Agricultural census and survey data from 2005/06 to 2016/17. The FLAD data is scheduled for integration with BLADE in early 2020.

    Benefits

    The intended benefits of the project included the improved delivery of government services to citizens, reduced cost of government services, and enhanced capabilities within agencies to use data for evidence-based policy.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Agricultural Census (Ag Census) 2015/16
    ABS Business Register
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Bureau of Meteorology climate dataBureau of Meteorology
    Business Activity Statement
    Business Income Tax
    Pay As You Go
    Australian Taxation Office

    Energy Productivity and Business Performance

    Commencement date: 14/05/2018
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project examined energy productivity and business performance by bringing together information from an extract of the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) with information from the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting System.

    Benefits

    This analysis will allow the Clean Energy Regulator and Department of the Environment and Energy to advise on trends in energy use and business performance, taking into account structural changes over time.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Business FrameAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Pay As You Go
    Business Activity Statement
    Business Income Tax
    Australian Taxation Office
    National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting SystemClean Energy Regulator

    Utilising Satellite Imagery Data for Agricultural Statistics

    Commencement date: 01/04/2015
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project investigated the methodological feasibility of using satellite imagery data to supplement current agricultural information. The project also assessed the methodological feasibility of determining crop types from satellite imagery data.

    Benefits

    If using satellite imagery is found to be feasible, it will potentially reduce contact with survey respondents, improve the timeliness and accuracy of agricultural statistics, and reduce data collection costs.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Landsat 7 / MODIS Satellite Data (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer)Geoscience Australia
    Ground Truth DataQLD Department of Science, Information, Technology and Innovation
    Bureau of Meteorology weather dataBureau of Meteorology
    Soil and Landscape Grid dataCSIRO

    Household Energy Consumption Project

    Commencement date: 11/10/2013
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project adds value to the ABS Household Energy Consumption Survey (HECS) by integrating household level electricity supply data via a National Meter Identifier where collected in both HECS and the Business Survey of Residential Electricity Distribution. This data will complement the range of detailed income, wealth and energy items collected as part of the main HECS.

    Benefits

    This additional linked data provides up to two years of historical electricity supply data to better understand longer term energy use patterns, which will inform energy policy decisions.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Household Energy Consumption Survey
    Business Survey of Residential Electricity Distribution
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Publications/Results

    25/03/2014 - Microdata: Household Energy Consumption, 2012 (cat. no. 4670.0.30.001)
    This product provides information about the release of microdata from the Household Energy Consumption Survey (HECS), Australia, 2012.

    24/09/2013 - Household Energy Consumption Survey, Australia: Summary of Results, 2012 (cat. no. 4670.0)
    This includes summary information from the 2012 Household Energy Consumption Survey (HECS) and the Business Survey of Residential Electricity Distribution (BSRED), Experimental Estimates.

    Land Accounts

    Commencement date: 04/04/2013
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    Land as an asset represents a major proportion of Australia's national economic value and is involved in a significant proportion of economic activities. The Land Accounts have produced experimental tables including land cover by land use in both area (hectares) and value ($). Future work on land accounts will work collaboratively with other government agencies to increase the utility of a combined land account dataset.

    Benefits

    Complete land accounts provide an in depth understanding of how land is used across Australia. This is extremely important for managing the environment, planning of future cities, and understanding the impacts of a changing environment on the Australian landscape.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Cadlite spatial datasetPublic Sector Mapping Agencies
    Dynamic Land Cover DatasetGeoscience Australia
    Land valuations fileState and Territory Valuer Generals

    Publications/Results

    15/06/2017 - Land Account: Queensland, Experimental Estimates, 2011 - 2016 (cat. no. 4609.0.55.003)

    27/08/2015 - Land Account: South Australia, Experimental Estimates, 2006 - 2011 (cat. no. 4609.4.55.001)

    18/07/2014 - Land Account: Great Barrier Reef Region, Experimental Estimates, 2014 (cat. no. 4609.0.55.001)
    This release presents the ABS' first experimental land account to demonstrate a method for reporting land use, rateable value, and land cover.
     

    Water Supply and Sewerage Services Survey

    Commencement date: December 2012
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    This project combines administrative data from the NSW Department of Primary Industries - Water, and the Queensland Water Directorate with ABS survey data. Outputs from this project are included in the annual ABS Water Account, Australia (cat. no. 4610.0) publication.

    Benefits

    The Water Account publication presents information on the physical and monetary supply and use of water in the Australian economy. The Water Account also provides information on the water use and consumptive practices of households and key industries (Agriculture and Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Services).

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS survey data (Water Supply and Sewerage Services Survey, Energy Water and Environment Survey, and Rural and Agricultural Commodities Survey)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    NSW Department of Primary Industries - Water admin dataNSW Department of Primary Industries - Water
    Queensland Water Directorate admin dataQueensland Water Directorate

    Publications/Results

    Health and Education

    Released
    13/12/2021

    Rename of MADIP to PLIDA

    The Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) was renamed the Person Level Integrated Data Asset (PLIDA) in 2023. Historical documents and projects retain their references to MADIP.

    Understanding socio-demographic cohorts in the COVID-19 vaccines strategy

    Commencement date: April 2021
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The Department of Health is coordinating the COVID-19 Vaccine and Treatment Strategy (‘the Strategy’). One of the goals of the Strategy is that Australians will receive safe and effective vaccines under a targeted and responsive national COVID-19 vaccination policy and immunisation program. This project will inform the Strategy by using deidentified data in MADIP linked to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) dataset to enable more granular breakdowns and analysis of selected socio-demographic cohorts in the administration of COVID-19 vaccines, and allow policy interventions to be targeted accordingly.

    Benefits

    Successful implementation of the Strategy is a high priority for the Australian and state/territory governments. Understanding which population groups may be under-serviced by the administration of the vaccine is critical to fulfilling the objectives of the Strategy and ultimately achieving a high-level of vaccination among the total Australian population. Research questions answered by this project will contribute to developing or modifying vaccination policies and programs.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
    - National Health Survey (2017-18)

    - Personal Income Tax (2018/19 to 2020/21)
    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative Data (2020)

    - Medicare Benefits Schedule (2020)
    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (2020)
    - Medicare Consumer Directory (2020)

    - Death Registrations (2019)

    - Migration (2018)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
    - Department of Social Services

    - Department of Health



    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriage

    - Department of Home Affairs
    Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) (from 2010)Department of Health
    Aged Care Provider data, public dataset at GEN Aged Care DataDepartment of Health
    National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) (from 2019)National Disability Insurance Agency
    Taxable Payment Annual Report (TPAR), from Residential Aged Care Facilities, Payee Data (2020/21)Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

    National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) - Pathways from education to employment South Australia

    Commencement date: May 2021
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) is a joint integrated data project aiming to bring together Commonwealth and state and territory data to better understand the life experiences and outcomes of people with disability in Australia. The NDDA aims to contribute to improved outcomes for people with disability, their families and carers.

    An 18-month pilot phase for the NDDA began in April 2020. Five government test cases were undertaken to demonstrate the potential of using linked data to support improved policy development, program design and service delivery for people with disability. This project, led by South Australia, is one of the five test cases and focusses on pathways from education to employment.

    The project explores the barriers to employment, identifies background and pathway factors that explain variations in outcomes, identifies supports which help to close the gap between people with disability and the general population, and describes the pathways into employment or further education for young adults with disability.

    Benefits

    Understanding the interaction between people with disability and the education and employment systems is valuable. Project findings will help inform the design of an enduring NDDA, and support improved policy development and program design, facilitating improved education to employment outcomes for people with disability.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010/11 to 2018/19)
    - Payment Summary data (2010/11 to 2018/19)

    - Higher Education Information Management Systems (HEIMS) (2005 to 2019)
    - Vocational Education and Training custom extract (2015 to 2019)

    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative Data (2005 to 2020)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office (ATO)


    - Department of Education, Skills and Employment


    - Department of Social Services
    National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) (2013 to 2020)National Disability Insurance Agency
    SA Linkage Project Dataset:
    - Disability Services National Minimum Dataset (2005 to 2019)
    - National Death Index (1996 to 2020)
    Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)
    SA School Enrolment Census (2005 to 2019)SA Department of Education
    SA National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) (2008 to 2019)SA Department of Education
    SA Certificate of Education (SACE) (2014 to 2019)SACE Board of South Australia

    National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) - Identification of people with a disability in linked administrative data

    Commencement date: June 2021
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) is a joint integrated data project aiming to bring together Commonwealth and state and territory data to better understand the life experiences and outcomes of people with disability in Australia. The NDDA aims to contribute to improved outcomes for people with disability, their families and carers.

    An 18-month pilot phase for the NDDA began in April 2020. Five government test cases were undertaken to demonstrate the potential of using linked data to support improved policy development, program design and service delivery for people with disability. This project supports the Outcomes Measurement test case being led by the Commonwealth Department of Social Services.

    This project tests:

    • the NDDA’s capacity to create an indicator for people with disability based on existing administrative data, and
    • the NDDA’s suitability for reporting against the future National Disability Strategy Outcomes Framework using data on housing-related supports.

    Benefits

    The NDDA aims to deliver a more complete picture of the supports and services that enhance the life outcomes of people with disability. Investigating whether cross-system data matching can provide an accurate and complete indicator for people with disability is critical for informing the design of an enduring NDDA. By having a deeper understanding of the extent to which people with disability interact with the broader housing supports system, and the impact of services and supports on their outcomes, governments will be able to plan for better support services.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
    - Combined demographics
    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)
    - Survey of Disability, Aging and Carers (2018)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010/11 to 2018/19)
    - Payment Summary data (2010/11 to 2018/19)
    - Client Register (2006 to 2020)

    - Medicare Consumer Directory (2006 to 2020)

    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative Data (2006 to 2020)

    - Death registrations (2007 to 2019)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Bureau of Statistics



    - Australian Taxation Office (ATO)



    - Services Australia

    - Department of Social Services

    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages
    National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) Pilot dataset extract (2010 to 2020) created from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) hosted component of the project.Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) on behalf of the custodians with data contributing to the extract.

    This includes DOMINO, NDIS, Disability Services National Minimum Dataset, Specialist Homelessness Services Collection, and the Public Housing (PH) and State Owned and Managed Indigenous Housing (SOMIH) data collections.

    Veterans Health and Welfare Research

    Commencement date:
    Project status:

    Project Summary

    In 2014, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) established a research partnership to build a comprehensive profile of the health and welfare of Australia’s veteran population. This project involves the analysis of data to support the AIHW–DVA research partnership.

    As a result of integrating Veteran information with MADIP analysis will be undertaken to describe the characteristics of the veteran population. Analysis will be based on the veteran-centred model (VCM) which identifies 7 domains for measuring health and welfare: housing; education and skills; employment; income and finance; health; social support; and justice and safety.

    Benefits

    The findings of the project will be used to inform targeted policies, programs and interventions aimed at improving health and welfare services. Organisations supporting veterans, including Commonwealth Government Departments and service providers, will gain a better understanding of veterans’ needs.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Veterans Population Spine and Analytical Dataset (2001 to 2018)Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW), Department of Defence and Department of Veterans' Affairs.

    Their Futures Matter (NSW)

    Commencement date: 11 June 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This Project, led by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice, aims to deliver insights that will inform priority setting and resource allocation across government to focus on improving the long-term outcomes for vulnerable children or young people and their families at the earliest opportunity. To this end, the Project uses longitudinal de-identified linked government administrative data to create a data platform to: 

    • serve as an evidence-based tool to support new policies and interventions aimed at improving the outcomes for vulnerable children and young people; and
    • support the evaluation of the effectiveness of public policies and interventions.

    Benefits

    The benefits to the community of this initiative are: 

    • supporting the identification of trends and gaps in government service usage and delivery for vulnerable children and their families, including around education outcomes, rates of incarceration, mental illness, out-of-home-care, and employment;
    • better tailoring of services to suit the needs of vulnerable children and their families;
    • delivery of clear evidence on service, support and program effectiveness;
    • provision of valuable information for research and planning of government supports and services;
    • supporting the implementation of new policies and program development directed to improving outcomes for vulnerable children and their families.
    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    Australian Early Development Census (2009, 2012, 2015, 2018)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE)
    Their Futures Matter Human Services Data Set (1 January 1990 to 30 June 2019)NSW Department of Communities and Justice

    Total VET Activity Linked to MADIP

    Commencement date: October 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project links Vocation Education and Training (VET) data to the MADIP environment, to allow for the analysis of the income, welfare and employment characteristics of students who are undertaking or have undertaken VET. The analysis of the data will be used to enhance the evidence base on the pathways people take pre and post VET.

    There will be two linked datasets created as part of this project. The first to be conducted in 2020 using Total Vet Activity (TVA) data from 2015-18 and the second to be conducted in 2021 using 2019 TVA data and any additional years of MADIP data available on the spine at that time.

    Benefits

    The analysis of this data will inform two recommendations from the Independent Review of the Vocation Education and Training Sector (2019): 

    • 5.8 The National Skills Commission to develop performance indicators using existing and future data sources to measure the outcomes and effectiveness of government investment in the VET sector, and
    • 6.5 The National Careers Institute to use a linked dataset incorporating Australian Taxation Office and Department of Human Services data on outcomes flowing from different qualification.

    VET Activity data will also greatly benefit other education, employment and broader social projects aiming to capture student engagement, post-schooling pathways, as well as employment and social outcomes from engagement in the VET industry. These data will provide a national view of the Australian VET system for the reference years 2015 to 2019.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)

    - Personal Income Tax (2013 to 2019)

    - Social Security and Related Information (2013 to 2019)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australia Tax Office

    - Department of Social Services
    Total VET Activity (2015-2019)Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE)

    Early Childhood Outcomes (NSW)

    Commencement date: November 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project aims to develop an outcomes framework that can be used to measure, monitor and track the impact that early childhood education (ECE) program participation has on the developmental outcomes of children in NSW. By understanding the link between ECE and experiences in the first years of formal schooling, this project will provide the evidence base required to identify reliable and robust measures and indicators for inclusion in the framework.

    The anticipated output of the project will be an analytical report and custom data extracts used by the NSW Department of Education used to inform education policy related to ECE and the developmental outcomes of children in NSW. 

    Benefits

    The project will provide increased understanding of the impact of ECE on schooling outcomes and how services should be prioritised. It will also develop a clear business case for the value of ECE, and develop specific outcome measures that allow the tracking of NSW progress in providing high quality ECE.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    NSW Long Day Care submission for National Early Childhood Education and Care Collection (2013, 2015)

    NSW Family Day Care data (2013, 2015)
    Department of Education, Skills and Employment
    Best Start Kindergarten (2015, 2018, 2019)

    NAPLAN Year 3 (2018)

    NSW Community and Government Preschool Data (2013, 2014, 2016-18)
    NSW Department of Education

    Births Data: Coverage study of Births Registration data and the Person Linkage Spine

    Commencement date: 26 May 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    With the agreement of the State and Territory Registrars, the ABS is undertaking a single quality study, linking Births Registration data to MADIP to explore the coverage of infants and children on the Person Linkage Spine. Underpinning MADIP is a Person Linkage Spine, created through a three-way linkage between the Medicare Consumer Directory, DOMINO Centrelink Administrative Data, and Personal Income Tax.

    Benefits

    This study will enable the ABS to provide better quality information to MADIP users about the Person Linkage Spine coverage to improve analyses. The study may also provide some insights into patterns of registration that would be of benefit to the Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    Personal Income Tax data:
    - Client Register (2006-2019)
    - PAYG Payment Summaries (2010 to 2017/18)
    - Client Data Income Tax Returns (2010 to 2017/18)

    - Medicare Consumer Directory (2006 to June 2019)

    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative Data (2006 to June 2019)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office




    - Department of Health

    - Department of Social Services
    Births registrations data (2006-2018)State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages

    Childhood Integrated Longitudinal Dataset (CHILD) Pilot Project

    Commencement date: November 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The Childhood Integrated Longitudinal Dataset (CHILD) Pilot Project provides a feasibility study with the key functions to assess the accuracy of estimating the Year Before Full-time Schooling (YBFS) cohort, and to provide insight into the future of the teacher’s workforce, through utilising integrated data assets.

    Benefits

    The project will create an up-to-date administrative population base to assess the feasibility of informing early childhood and school education national reporting indicators.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010-11 to 2015-16)

    - Social Security and Related Information (2010/11 to 2015/16)

    - Medicare Enrolments Database (2006 to 2016)

    - Higher Education Information Management System data (2005 to 2016)

    - Death Registrations (2007 to 2016)

    - Migration data (2004 to 2019)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office

    - Department of Health

    - Department of Human Services

    - Department of Education

    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages

    - Department of Home Affairs

    National Quality Standard (NQS) and CCMS to MADIP

    Commencement date: February 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project adds additional data items to the 2019 DIPA Policy Deliver plan “The First Five years: What makes a difference?”. Additional data comes from the Australian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority (ACECQA) and reports on the National Quality Standard (NQS) 2013-2017

    The NQS includes 7 quality areas that are important outcomes for children. These data items along with the CCMS link to MADIP use administrative data covering enrolment and attendance of children aged 4-6, and their associated carers. The data will only be provided to authorised and will not be used for other purposes.

    Benefits

    In line with the broader benefits outlined by “The First Five years” project, this addition will allow researchers to better understand influencing factors, circumstances and outcomes of disadvantaged children, to improve life trajectories.

    It will generate a comprehensive child-centred data asset for use by all Australian Government agencies. Broader benefits include improved delivery of government services to citizens, reduced cost of government services, and enhanced capability within agencies to use data for evidence-based policy or service delivery.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)
    - National Health Survey (2014-15)
    - Survey of Disability, Aging and Carers (2018)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010-11 to 2017-18)
    - Payment Summary (2010-11 to 2017-18)

    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (2011 to 2018)
    - Medicare Benefits Schedule (2011 to 2018)
    - Social Security and Related Information (2009 to 2018)

    - Medicare Enrolments Database (2006 to 2018)

    - Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) (2015, 2018)

    - Death Registrations (2007 to 2018)

    - Migration data (2009 to 2018)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics



    - Australian Taxation Office


    - Department of Health



    - Department of Human Services

    - Department of Education


    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages

    - Department of Home Affairs

    Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program (AAIP) and Training Contracts (2011-2016)Department of Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business
    Data Exchange (DEX) data (2010 to 2018)Department of Social Services
    Child Care Management System (2010 to 2018)Department of Education

    Understanding the drivers of poor learning progress

    Commencement date: October 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project, led by the Department of Education, will identify opportunities to lift the learning trajectories of students by exploring the influence and prevalence of out-of-school factors on academic progress.

    This project will: 

    • focus on trajectories of learning progress rather than point-in-time achievement
    • support social policy development to improve overall student life course outcomes
    • investigate the impact of personal, family and community factors on learning
    • identify potential intervention points to improve student learning trajectories.

    Benefits

    Insights from this project will help improve service delivery to communities and families by better identifying students in need of targeted support.

    This project will enhance the capacity of social policy agencies to prioritise reforms and support development of effective and timely interventions to promote student learning. This can reduce downstream expenditure on poor health, welfare dependency, and remedial education.

    This project will strengthen understanding of the risk factors that affect student learning trajectories, and promote collaborations between social policy agencies and states/territories to improve outcomes for students. In particular, it will give states and territories an insight into contextual factors that influence schooling outcomes, supporting partnerships between governments at all levels to understand and improve learning trajectories.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2011)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010/11 to 2015/16)

    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (2011 to 2016)
    - Medicare Benefits Schedule (2011 to 2016)

    - Medicare Enrolments Database (2009 to 2016)

    - Social Security and Related Information (2009-2016)

    - Australian Early Development Census (2009)

    - Death registrations (2009 to 2016)

    - Migration data (2000 to 2018)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office

    - Department of Health

    - Department of Human Services

    - Department of Social Services

    - Department of Education


    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages

    - Department of Home Affairs
    Queensland NAPLAN data (2010 to 2018)
    Population coverage and reference years: state school students who were in Year 3 during 2010, 2011 and 2012
    Queensland Department of Education

    VET Register to ABS Business Register

    Commencement date: 20/04/2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project links publicly available data from the National Register on Vocational Education and Training with an extract of the ABS Business Register and the BAS Benchmarks Dataset. The dataset will be used to estimate the number of Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) that would be eligible for funding under the recently announced COVID-19 Stimulus packages. Only aggregate de-identified data will be released for this project.

    Benefits

    This project supports the Australian Government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, by assisting analysis of the implementation and effectiveness of policy responses and outcomes for the RTO sector.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    National Register on Vocational Education and Training (March 2020)Department of Education Skills and Employment (DESE)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics Business Register (ABSBR) extract (2018-19)Australian Business Register (ABR)
    Business Activity Statement (BAS) benchmarks dataset (2018-19)Australian Tax Office (ATO)

    Use of predicted household characteristics for National Health Survey design

    Commencement date: January 2020
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    The purpose of the project is to improve the National Health Survey (NHS) sample design by predicting the household size and number of children for every household on the ABS address register. These predictions were used to inform the selected household sample in line with usual ABS procedures that protects the privacy of the household.

    This will increase the efficiency of the sample design, producing an expected improvement in quality in the estimates equivalent to an 8% sample boost with an emphasis on improved child estimates, without increasing the overall burden on Australian households to respond to the National Health Survey.

    Benefits

    This project will deliver improved accuracy of estimates across the 2020-21 National Health Survey, in particular estimates relating to children, to better inform policy outcomes.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Census of Population and Housing (Census) (2016)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    National Health Survey Frame (2019)Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Healthy mind, healthy body

    Commencement date: September 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project, led by the Department of Health, aims to build knowledge and a better understanding of the association between physical health conditions and mental health conditions.

    Benefits

    The project may improve policy interventions, and has the potential to inform further developments of social security payments and the provision of appropriate support services for people with mental and physical health conditions.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Data Exchange (DEX) data (2015 to 2018)Department of Social Services

    Feasibility study: Linkage of National Disability Insurance Scheme data to MADIP

    Commencement date: 24/09/2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This is a feasibility study looking at the linkage of NDIS data with the MADIP.

    The NDIS is a nationally-based disability care and support scheme being rolled out across Australia (full roll-out by July 2020) which has significantly changed the way disability support services are funded and delivered. As a result, the disability data and policy landscapes are evolving and there are significant challenges around the availability of robust and efficient data sources to give a complete picture of the circumstances of people living with disability.
    Integration of NDIS data with the MADIP could provide significant value in helping to build a richer picture of Australians living with disability.

    Integration will predominantly provide insight into Scheme participants and their characteristics, care pathways and outcomes, and how they compare with other groups in the population. Specific analysis planned for this study will focus on participants’ health and wellbeing and their housing and economic circumstances.

    Benefits

    The feasibility study will enable the ABS to explore and understand the complexities around linkage of NDIS data with the MADIP (eg: governance, methodological, weighting, analytical and access).

    Learnings and recommendations from this pilot will ensure the ABS is well set-up to guide and undertake any possible future linkage of NDIS data.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
    National Health Survey
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS)
    Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

    Medicare Enrolments Database (MEDB)

    Social Security and Related Information

    Personal Income Tax
    Department of Health


    Department of Human Services (DHS)

    Department of Social Services

    Australian Tax Office (ATO)
    National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) data (as at 30 June 2019)National Disability Insurance Authority (NDIA)

    The first five years: What makes a difference?

    Commencement date: September 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project, led by the Department of Education, seeks to better understand influencing factors, circumstances, and outcomes of disadvantaged children, to improve life trajectories.

    Benefits

    This project aims to reveal new insights that may contribute to new policies or adjustments to policy settings that improve services to Australian children and families.

    This project offers the opportunity to reduce the lifetime welfare and health costs to government through early childhood policy interventions that reduce the need for intervention later in life.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)
    - National Health Survey (2014-15)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010-11 to 2017-18)
    - Payment Summary (2010-11 to 2017-18)

    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (2011 to 2018)
    - Medicare Benefits Schedule (2011 to 2018)
    - Social Security and Related Information (2009 to 2018)

    - Medicare Enrolments Database (2006 to 2018)

    - Australian Early Development Census (AEDC) (2015, 2018)

    - Death Registrations (2007 to 2018)


    - Migration data (2009 to 2018)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics


    - Australian Taxation Office


    - Department of Health



    - Department of Human Services

    - Department of Education

    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages


    - Department of Home Affairs
    Australian Immunisation Register (2010 to 2018)Department of Human Services
    Data Exchange (DEX) data (2010 to 2018)Department of Social Services
    Child Care Management System (2010 to 2018)Department of Education

    Using linked data to investigate the role of sociodemographic factors in cancer

    Commencement date: 24/09/2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The purpose of this project is to assist in understanding the sociodemographic characteristics of persons screened for or diagnosed with cancer, for which limited information is currently available. It will be particularly important for specific population groups (such as culturally and linguistically diverse groups).

    Benefits

    Information on demographic and socioeconomic factors is often insufficiently captured in administrative data sources, such as cancer registries. The combination of MADIP and Cancer data will provide insight into how demographic and socioeconomic factors, such as education, employment status, ethnicity and income can influence cancer screening behaviours, incidence, treatment, mortality and survival. This linkage will allow these data gaps to be filled and a greater understanding of the importance of these factors in all stages of the cancer journey to be gained.

    This research can help improve Australia’s understanding and support of people who require Cancer health services and assist with the design of better programs of support and prevention. By informing innovative approaches to cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and care, the project aims to improve outcomes for people living with cancer.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2011, 2016)
    - National Health Survey (2014/15 to 2015/16)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010/11 to 2015/16)

    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Schedule (2011-2016)
    - Medicare Benefits Schedule (2011-2016)

    - Medicare Enrolments Database (2006-2016)

    - Social Security and Related Information (2009-2016)

    - Death Registrations (2007-2016)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics


    - Australian Taxation Office

    - Department of Health


    - Department of Human Services

    - Department of Social Services

    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages
    NSW Linked Cancer dataset:
    - Cancer Incidence and Mortality (1972–2016)
    - BreastScreen NSW (1988–2016)
    - NSW Pap Test Registry (1996–2017)
    Cancer Institute NSW

    Direct measure of capacity to contribute for non-government school funding

    Commencement date: 08/01/2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    Conducted under the Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) for the National School Resourcing Board, this project enables a finer level, timelier, and more accurate understanding of the measures used to allocate funding to non-government schools. The data will be used to create a direct income measure to determine the capacity of a non-government school community to contribute financially to their school.

    The new arrangements for using a direct income measure to determine the capacity of a school community to contribute to their school will be phased in from 2020. More background is available on the Department of Education and Training website.

    Benefits

    This project is a key component in the future development of improved models for allocating funding to the non-government sector in the most effective and efficient manner.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Student Residential Address and Other Information (Student) collectionDepartment of Education
    Personal Income TaxAustralian Taxation Office
    Social Security and Related InformationDepartment of Social Services

    Transition from education to work

    Commencement date: 27/08/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project combines higher education data with the Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) to enable analysis of health and social factors affecting peoples’ transitions from tertiary education to work.

    In particular, this project seeks to understand the significant social and health risk factors that prevent Australians from completing their studies or effectively transitioning from tertiary education (Vocational Education and Training and universities) into employment, and how these factors go on to affect lifetime employment and other social outcomes.

    Benefits

    The benefits of this project include:

    • Evidence to support more targeted social, health, and welfare support policies leading to long term cost savings for the government, improved student loan repayment rates, and better long-term outcomes for disadvantaged Australians.
    • Improved ability for agencies to use data for evidence-based policy or service delivery through integration of education data and MADIP, as well as cross-portfolio collaboration.
    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) integrated assetAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Higher Education Management System, 2005-2016Australian Government Department of Education

    Pathways for the future - Reform project

    Commencement date: 26/07/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will analyse education to employment pathways for young people aged 15 to 24 years in NSW over the period 1996-2016. The analysis will identify the factors, drivers, and characteristics associated with completion of school, post-school education (vocational education and training and higher education), and attainment of work.

    Benefits

    In addition to providing valuable insights to inform prospective students about different pathways of study, the project’s findings will provide evidence to inform government policies and programs that help young people transition through the education system and into meaningful employment.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Demographic information from Medicare Enrolment DatabaseDepartment of Health
    Personal Income TaxAustralian Taxation Office
    Social Security and Related InformationDepartment of Social Services
    Apprentices and Trainees & NSW Student Outcome Survey Smart, Skilled and Hired dataNSW Department of Industry
    Vocational Education and Training dataNSW Department of Industry TAFE NSW NSW Education Standards Authority
    NSW public school enrolment and student characteristics NSW public school workforce profile (teachers)NSW Department of Education
    NAPLAN, Record of School Achievement, Higher School CertificateNSW Education Standards Authority
    Higher EducationDepartment of Education

    Vulnerable and disadvantaged children data integration project

    Commencement date: 01/07/2017
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project explores the characteristics of vulnerable families and children, and the factors influencing those children's outcomes to support research into risk/protective factors.

    Benefits

    The project helps to inform policy and practice and investment of resources by government in childhood development.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    National Early Childhood Education and Care Collection
    Census of Population and Housing
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Australian Early Development Census
    Commonwealth Childcare Management System
    Australian Government Department of Education
    Social Security and Related InformationDepartment of Social Services
    National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) dataAustralian Curriculum, Assessment, and Reporting Authority

    Coordination of health care

    Commencement date: 22/02/2017
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This is the first study in Australia to look in detail at the coordination and continuity of care experienced by patients in the health system. It is fully funded by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

    Benefits

    Many patients experience fragmented health care that negatively impacts on their outcomes and also can lead to increases in health system costs. The study will help support local reporting on patient experiences of coordination and continuity of health care and define areas for improvement.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Survey of Health Care 2016Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) 2014-2018
    Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) 2014-2018
    Department of Health
    Hospital admissions and Emergency Department presentations 2014-2018State/territory health departments

    Publications/Results

    13/08/2019 - Case Study: Coordination of Health Care

    18/12/2018 - Coordination of Health Care Study: Use of Health Services and Medicines, Australia, 2015-16 (cat. no. 4343.0.55.001)
    This publication focuses on use of and experiences with MBS subsidised services and PBS subsidised medicines in 2015-16 by people aged 45 years and over who had at least one general practitioner visit between November 2014 and November 2015.

    20/09/2017 - Survey of Health Care, Australia, 2016 (cat. no. 4343.0)
    This publication focuses on understanding experiences with coordination and continuity of care by people aged 45 years and over who had at least one general practitioner visit between November 2014 and November 2015.

    Early learning and development integrated dataset

    Commencement date: 11/03/2016
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This integrated dataset was created to better understand the interactions between:

    • Children's development in their first year of full-time schooling (physical health and well-being, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive skills, and communication and general knowledge)
    • Preschool enrolment and attendance
    • The assessed quality of education and care service providers.

    The project also provides an evidence base for interventions in the early childhood education system targeted at helping reduce the vulnerability of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

    This project was the first step in establishing a national dataset for early childhood education to explore complex questions particularly relating to the effectiveness of government policy and resourcing of programs.

    Benefits

    This dataset assists evidence based decision making and policy interventions to improve early childhood education and development outcomes.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    National Early Childhood Education and Care CollectionAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Australian Early Development CensusAustralian Government Department of Education
    National Quality Standard DataAustralian Children’s Education and Care Quality Authority

    Interactions between socio-economic factors and the use of mental health services and prescription medication in Australia

    Commencement date: 14/08/2014
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project was initiated on behalf of the National Mental Health Commission to inform the National Review of Mental Health Services and Programmes.

    The project brought together Census data with information from administrative data on people accessing subsidised mental health-related services and prescription medication.

    Analysis of the integrated data could answer questions about the relationship between mental health-related services and/or medication use and key socio-economic information such as education, employment, and housing.

    Benefits

    This project will help:

    • Support analysis of the effectiveness and efficiency of mental health services in Australia
    • Support improvements in the provisions of mental health services which, in turn, benefits all Australians through
    DatasetsData Custodians
    2011 Census of Population and Housing
    Mortality, Enhanced Characteristics, Australia 2011-12
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Medicare Benefits Schedule 2011
    Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme 2011
    Department of Health
    Medicare Enrolments Database 2011Department of Human Services

    Publications/Results

    08/09/2017 - Mortality of People Using Mental Health Services and Prescription Medications, Analysis of 2011 data (cat. no. 4329.0.00.006)
    This publication presents information on mortality of persons using mental health-related services and prescription medications in 2011.

    03/06/2016 - Cultural and Linguistic Characteristics of People Using Mental Health Services and Prescription Medications, 2011 (cat. no. 4329.0.00.001)
    This publication provides an overview of selected cultural and linguistic characteristics of people using subsidised mental health services and prescription medications.

    13/05/2016 - Housing Circumstances of People Using Mental Health Services and Prescription Medications, 2011 (cat. no. 4329.0.00.002)
    This publication provides an overview of selected housing circumstances of people using subsidised mental health-related services and prescription medications.

    24/03/2016 - Patterns of Use of Mental Health Services and Prescription Medications, 2011 (cat. no. 4329.0.0.003)
    This publication further explores patterns of use of subsidised mental health-related services and prescription medications, including combinations of types of treatments.

    28/10/2014 - Characteristics of people using mental health services and prescription medication, 2011 (cat. no. 4329.0)
    This publication provides an overview of social and economic characteristics of people using subsidised mental health-related services and subsidised prescription medication including the type of services or medication these people are accessing.

    Measuring educational outcomes over the life-course

    Commencement date: 05/10/2013
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project assessed the feasibility of bringing together a range of datasets to examine the impact of personal, family, social, and economic characteristics on school achievement and child development over time.

    Benefits

    This project has resulted in a better understanding of the factors that impact school achievement and child development, providing information for evidence-based decision making aimed at improving educational outcomes.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    2011 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) dataAustralian Curriculum, Assessment, and Reporting Authority
    Australian Early Development CensusAustralian Government Department of Education
    Tasmanian government school enrolmentsThe Department of Education Tasmania
    Queensland government school enrolmentsQueensland Department of Education, Training, and Employment

    Publications/Results

    15/12/2014 - Educational Outcomes, Experimental Estimates, Queensland, 2011 (cat. no. 4261.3)
    This publication presents information on the socioeconomic context of school achievement in Queensland.

    30/07/2014 - Outcomes from Vocational Education and Training in Schools, experimental estimates, Australia, 2006-2011 (cat. no. 4260.0)
    This publication presents information on the characteristics of students engaged in vocational education and training in school, and their outcomes such as further study and participation in the labour market.

    28/07/2014 - Educational Outcomes, Experimental Estimates, Tasmania, 2006-2013 (cat. no. 4261.6)
    This publication presents information on the socioeconomic context of school achievement in Tasmania.

    Census education quality study

    Commencement date: 14/06/2013
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This study tested the feasibility of bringing together state and territory government school enrolment data with Census data to enable analysis of the characteristics of students and their families. The study also explored the viability of data integration as a tool for improving and extending the range of education data currently available, and explored data about transitions throughout and beyond school.

    Benefits

    This data can reveal significant insights for researchers into the educational pathways and outcomes of Australia’s students to provide a basis for informing policy development and research in education. The study also constructed the infrastructure for conducting future data integration projects between education data and the Census.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    2011 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    QLD 2010 and 2011 Government School Enrolment datasetsQueensland Department of Education and Training
    SA 2010-11 Government School Enrolment datasetsSouth Australian Department of Education and Training
    TAS 2010-11 Government School enrolment datasetsTasmanian Department of Education
    NT 2010-11 Government school enrolment datasetsNorthern Territory Department of Education and Training

    Publications/Results

    21/03/2014 - Research Paper: Assessing the quality of Different Data Linking Methodologies Across Time, using Northern Territory Government School Enrolment Data, March 2014 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.046)
    This feasibility study assesses the suitability and quality of four different deterministic linkage methods, all of which link data without requiring full name and address.

    21/03/2014 - Research Paper: Assessing the quality of Different Data Linking Methodologies Across Time, using Tasmanian Government School Enrolment Data, March 2014 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.047)
    This feasibility study provided additional evidence on the quality and accuracy of using the Statistical Linkage Key 581 as a linkage method for education and training data integration projects.

    21/03/2014 - Research Paper – Investigating Algorithms to Report on Indigenous Status Where Status Differs for Student Records Across Years, March 2014 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.048)
    This feasibility study investigates the consistency of the reporting of Indigenous status across time, and where Indigenous status changes over time, investigating the most appropriate decision rules or ‘algorithm’ to determine Indigenous status for use in analysis and reporting.

    13/12/2013 - Assessing the Quality of Linking School Enrolment Records to 2011 Census Data: Deterministic Linkage Methods (cat. no. 1351.0.55.045)
    This paper compares the quality of several linkage methods used for the ABS CDE Education Quality Study.

    30/04/2013 - Assessing the Quality of Linking School Enrolment Records to 2011 Census Data (cat. no. 1351.0.55.041)
    This paper details the methodology used in the linkage process, the outcome of the project, and the quality of the resultant datasets.

    Vocational Education and Training in schools to Census Linkage Project

    Commencement date: 04/04/2013
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will look at participation in Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs in schools to see if it leads to positive outcomes for students over time. It will examine:

    • Employment and further study pathways VET in Schools students engage in post-school,
    • The contribution VET makes to the national pool of STEM skills, and
    • How well VET in Schools programs equip students with the skills required for participation in a variety of different employment and education pathways.

    Benefits

    This project will provide richer information about the socio-economic and demographic backgrounds, education pathways, and outcomes of participants in VET in Schools. The data shows whether students went onto further study, the highest qualification they attained, whether they are currently employed or studying and the level of income attained. It helps policy makers use evidence to learn about the outcomes achieved from programs and policies.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    2011 Census of Population and Housing
    2016 Census of Population and Housing
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Vocational Education and Training in Schools data (2011)National Centre for Vocational Education Research

    Post-School Destinations Project

    Commencement date: November 2021
    Project Status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The Post-School Destinations proof of concept data linkage project will investigate whether linked administrative data can be used to improve the quality and reliability of data used by governments, as well as support research that identifies the factors affecting a student’s educational journey.

    The project will aim to investigate the following research questions:

    • What are the post-school destinations and outcomes (including outcomes such as Not in Employment, Education or Training (NEET) for students at the national and state/territory level?
    • What are the post-school destinations and outcomes for students from disadvantaged backgrounds?
    • To what extent are students who have personal and/or family financial pressures at risk of poorer outcomes (measured by SES quartiles)?

    The project will analyse cohorts of students who undertook Year 7 and Year 9 NAPLAN assessments between 2009 and 2017 (inclusive). Participating State Governments supply student information enrolment, attainment and NAPLAN results.  Demographic information from MADIP will be used to research post-school outcomes for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
    Planning for the project commenced in mid-2020, with data acquired in mid-2021 and linked in late 2021-early 2022.

    Benefits

    As outlined in the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration, “education plays a vital role in promoting the development and wellbeing of young Australians and in ensuring Australia’s ongoing economic prosperity and social cohesion.” To achieve this goal, the Australian government in conjunction with states and territories have a commitment to improving educational outcomes for students and creating lifelong learners.

    The resulting dataset will aid governments in understanding the relationship between student performance and attainment, and post school outcomes, including participation in tertiary education and employment.

     
    DatasetsData Custodian

    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    MySchool School Characteristics (2009-2020)

    Australian Curriculum, Assessment, and Reporting Authority (ACARA)

    Commonwealth ATAR data – Offers and Applications (2012-2020)

    Department of Education (DE)

    NSW NAPLAN Years 7 and 9 (2009 – 2017) (all sectors)

    NSW School enrolments and Attainments Years 10 to 12 (2012 – 2020) (all sectors)

    NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA)

    Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR)

    NSW University Admissions Centre (UAC)

    VIC School enrolments for Government schools

    Victorian Department of Education and Training (DOE)

    NAPLAN Years 7 and 9 (2009 – 2017) (all sectors)

    School attainment and certification Years 10 to 12 (2012 – 2020) (all sectors)

    Victorian Curriculum Assessment Authority (VCAA)

    ATAR

    Victorian Tertiary Admissions Centre (VTAC)

    NAPLAN Years 7 and 9 (2009 – 2017) (Government only)

    School enrolment, attainment and certification Years 10 to 12 (2012 – 2020) (Government only)

    Queensland Department of Education

    NAPLAN Years 7 and 9 (2009 – 2017) (all sectors)

    School enrolment, attainment and certification Years 10 to 12 (2012 – 2020) (all sectors)

    Overall Placement scores (in lieu of ATAR)

    Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA)

    NAPLAN Years 7 and 9 (2009 – 2017) (Government and Catholic)

    School enrolment, attainment and certification Years 10 to 12 (2012 – 2020) (Government and Catholic)

    Australian Capital Territory Education Directorate

    ATAR

    Australian Capital Territory Board of Senior Secondary Studies

    NAPLAN Years 7 and 9 (2009 – 2017) (all sectors)

    School enrolment Years 10 to 12 (2012 – 2020) (Government only)

    Tasmanian Department of Education

    School attainment and certification Years 10 to 12 (2012 – 2020) (all sectors)

    Office of Tasmanian Assessment Standards and Certification (TASC)

    NAPLAN Years 7 and 9 (2009 – 2017) (Government only)

    School attainment and certification Years 10 to 12 (2012 – 2020) (Government only)

    ATAR

    Western Australian Department of Education

     

    Industry and the Economy

    Released
    13/12/2021

    Key data assets:

    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)
    Linked Employer-Employee Database (LEED)
    (see: Data assets)

    Small and Medium Enterprise Loan Guarantee APRA data

    Commencement date: November 2021
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The Australian Government Coronavirus Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Guarantee Scheme and SME Recovery Loan Schemes supported loans to SMEs by providing government guarantees to participating lenders to enhance their ability to extend credit. This project: 

    • analyses the characteristics of the businesses that received the loans and
    • investigates the effect the loans made on business outcomes.

    SME Guarantee Scheme and SME Recovery Loan Schemes information reported to the Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority (APRA) by lenders will be integrated with the Business Longitudinal Data Analysis Environment (BLADE). No personal information will be used.

    Benefits

    The results of this project will be used to by Treasury to monitor the roll-out and assess the effectiveness of these loan schemes. This project will also provide a proof of concept for collecting APRA loan level data at the ABN level and integration with BLADE for informing policies and programs.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Business Longitudinal Data Analysis Environment (BLADE) Core – ABN Level
    Business Longitudinal Data Analysis (BLADE) Standard Module
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    SME Guarantee Scheme loan data:
    - Phase 1: 16 Apr to 30 Jun 2020
    - Phase 2: 1 Oct 2020 to 30 Jun 2021

    SME Recovery Loan Scheme loan data
    - 1 Apr 2021 to 30 Sep 2021
    Australian Prudential Regulatory Authority (APRA)

    Patterns and drivers of wages levels and growth

    Commencement date: October 2021
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project uses Wage Price Index data linked to the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) Core to help understand the evolution of wages and general labour market trends. The project focuses on both structural and cyclical drivers. Specific topics being investigated include: 

    • drivers of wages growth historically and in the aftermath of COVID-19 and associated policy responses;
    • drivers of wages levels and consequences for earned income inequality; and
    • the impact of policies on employment and wages, such as fiscal and monetary policy, wage-setting and industrial relations policies, and tax and superannuation policies.

    Benefits

    This project will provide the Treasury and the Reserve Bank of Australia with information that can be used to inform briefing materials, policy analysis and policy advice.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Business Longitudinal Data Analysis Environment (BLADE) Core (2008-2021)
    - Indicative data items

    - Business Activity Statement (BAS)
    - Pay As You Go (PAYG)
    - Business Income Tax (BIT)
    - Business Locations
    Australian Bureau of Statistics


    - Australian Taxation Office (ATO)
    Business Longitudinal Data Analysis Environment (BLADE) Standard Modules Data (2008 – 2021) Standard Data Item List - October 2021:
    - Business Characteristics Survey (BCS)
    - Business Expenditure on Research and Development (BERD)
    - Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development (PNPERD)
    - Government Expenditure on Research and Development (GOVERD)
    - Economic Activity Survey (EAS)
    - Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data (IPLORD) Aus. variables
    - Energy Water Environment Survey (EWES)
    - Employee Earning and Hours (EEH)
    - Business Conditions and Sentiments (SBCS)
    - Capital Expenditure (CAPEX)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Wage Price Index (WPI), States and Territories (2008-2021)Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Workplace Agreements Database

    Commencement date: November 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project investigates the relationship between long term wage agreements and the economic performance of firms following a large negative demand shock.

    This is done by comparing the performance of firms that entered a long term wage agreement just prior to the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) to two control groups; firstly, firms that entered long term wage agreements after the GFC, and secondly, firms that did not enter into long term wage agreements.

    By comparing these groups, we expect to quantify the impact on long-term wage agreements on firm level outcomes when faced with large negative demand shocks.

    Benefits

    This project will better inform policy makers of the costs and benefits associated with the creation of enterprise bargaining agreements relative to other forms of wage setting in the Australian labour market. It also has the potential to shed light upon the determinants of employment in the Australian economy and how employment is linked to wages.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - ABS Business Register (2001/02 to 2018/19)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Business Income Tax (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Payment Summaries (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office
    Workplace Agreements Database (2001/02 to 2018/19)Attorney-General's Department

    Trademarks and exporting: Evidence from Australian microdata

    Commencement date: November 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will investigate how trademark use impacts export behaviour and performance of Australian businesses. Its findings will inform export promotion policies and programs.

    In order to investigate the relationship between trademark use and business export behaviour and performance, the project will use a linked IP–ATO data asset that already exists.

    Results of the project will be presented and shared with Austrade, the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science, the Department of Jobs and Small Business, the Productivity Commission, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet and the Treasury.

    Benefits

    Several Commonwealth departments and agencies will derive policy and program benefits from this project. Its findings are expected to make export promotion assistance more targeted, and hence make it more effective and efficient.

    In addition, the evidence from this project can lead to efficiency-improving changes in procedures for granting and administering trademarks, generating service delivery benefits.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - ABS Business Register (2001/02 to 2016/17)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001/02 to 2016/17)
    - Business Income Tax (2001/02 to 2016/17)
    - Payment Summaries (2001/02 to 2016/17)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office
    Trademark Link (TM-LINK) data

    IPLORD (Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data)
    IP Australia

    Weekly Payroll Jobs and Wages

    Commencement date: April 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The Weekly Payroll Jobs and Wages in Australia estimates are derived from data reported by businesses through the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Single Touch Payroll (STP) system, providing timely and frequent labour market information. The estimates provide the weekly change in the number of jobs, change in wages and change in average weekly wage by job and how that has evolved since Australia registered its 100th confirmed case of coronavirus in the week ending 14 March 2020.

    Benefits

    The Weekly Payroll Jobs and Wages estimates produced from this project are part of a suite of new products the ABS are releasing to provide up-to-date information on the impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus on people and businesses in Australia. The estimates provide up-to-date information on the impact of COVID-19 on jobs and wages.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Business Register and Common Frame (December 2019 to March 2020)
    (2001/02 to 2016/17)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Single Touch Payroll (from January 2020)

    ATO Client Register (2017-18)

    JobKeeper (from May 2020)*
    Australian Taxation Office

    *The JobKeeper 2020 data was linked for exploration purposes but does not form part of the Weekly Payroll Jobs and Wages estimates.

    Publications/Results

    Weekly Payroll Jobs and Wages in Australia (cat. no. 6160.0.55.001)
    Experimental weekly estimates on the impact of COVID-19 on employee jobs and wages, sourced from Single Touch Payroll data.

    Impacts of COVID-19 - Weekly Payroll Jobs in Australia, Interactive Map
    An interactive time slider map examining the percentage change in payroll jobs since the week ending 14 March 2020, by Statistical Area Level 4 (SA4).

    Privacy Impact Assessment

    15/07/2020 – Privacy Impact Assessment Summary - Weekly Payroll Jobs and Wages in Australia

    Real time labour market tracker

    Commencement date: July 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project, led by the Department of the Treasury, will create a high frequency labour market tracker data asset to allow for real-time tracking of developments in the labour market to inform Treasury’s forecasts, and on-going monitoring of economic conditions more generally. It will provide information on labour market transitions at a very high-frequency, which will be crucial in understanding the strength of the labour market, and therefore in informing policies.

    Benefits

    As the economy recovers from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, it will be crucial to understand developments in the labour market. This project will extract value from high frequency datasets on the labour force and government support measures by integrating them into a data asset that can be used to monitor numerous aspects of the labour market, in as close to real time as possible. This will help to inform forecasts, and enable highly responsive policy development and assessment, by allowing an examination of how the labour market is tracking relative to what is expected.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)
    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)

    - Personal Income Tax – ATO Client Register (2006-2020)

    - Medicare Consumer Directory (2006-2020)

    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative data (2006-2020)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office

    - Services Australia

    - Department of Social Services
    DOMINO Centrelink Administrative data – JobSeeker data (From 2020)Department of Social Services
    Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) dataset (From 2010)Department of Health
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - ABS Business Register (2005/06 to 2018/19)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Business Income Tax (2001/02 to 2017/18)
    - Payment Summaries (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Business Locations (2018-19)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office
    Single Touch Payroll (From April 2020)

    JobKeeper (From March 2020)

    Early Release Superannuation (ERS) (Apr 2020-Dec 2020)

    JobMaker Hiring Credit (JMHC) (From Oct 2020)
    Australian Taxation Office

    Assessing potential effects of COVID on firms

    Commencement date: April 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    COVID-19, and associated health restrictions, had a substantial effect on firms. Led by the Department of the Treasury, this project examines the potential effect of the virus, and associated policies, based on firm’s past financial positions and trends.

    Benefits

    This project aims to understand the potential effect of the virus, and associated policies, on firms in terms of their profitability and liquidity, based on firm’s past financial positions and trends. This can help to support policy-making related to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - ABS Business Register (2001/02 to 2018/19)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Business Income Tax (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Payment Summaries (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office
    JobKeeper (2020)Australian Taxation Office

    Outcomes of Indigenous Preferential Procurement

    Commencement date: 30 June 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This experimental project will integrate data from various Indigenous business directories, in order to evaluate the impact of Indigenous Preferential Procurement Policies (IPPPs) on Indigenous businesses and communities. Key research questions are focussed on the characteristics Indigenous businesses, how they vary geographically and by business type.

    Benefits

    This project supports the Closing the Gap initiative by enabling evaluation of the impact of IPPPs. Due to data gaps, there has been little examination about how effective IPPPs are at helping indigenous business and improving outcomes for Indigenous people. Benefits from the first phase of this project include:

    • The most comprehensive study of the nature and location of Indigenous businesses. This will help governments identify and design IPPPs that are more likely to help Indigenous businesses.
    • A description of data sources and data integration processes (including evaluation of strengths and weaknesses, and possible improvements), which help data custodians improve their data holdings in order to better support research.
    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - Indicative data items (e.g. State, ANZIC) (2001-02 to 2016-17)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Pay As You Go (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Business Income Tax (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office
    Register of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Corporations extract (1978 to March 2020)Office of the Register of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC)
    Indigenous Business Direct DirectorySupply Nation
    Victorian Aboriginal Business Directory (as at 23 July 2020)Victorian Government – Department of Jobs, Precincts and Regions (DJPR)
    Industry Capability Network Dataset (as at 21 July 2020)Industry Capability Network

    Industry and employment dynamics in South Australia - data update

    Commencement date: 14/08/2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will update the integration of data from the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) and South Australian (SA) Government datasets with data from 2000-01 through to 2018-19. The project follows successful completion of a pilot study and aims to create an evidence base to better understand overall employment and industry performance in South Australia and inform economic policy development and program evaluation. The project is being coordinated by the SA Department of Premier and Cabinet, but involves agencies across SA Government with a range of policy questions.
     

    Benefits

    More informed economic development policy and program evaluation will enhance well-being for South Australians through effective government programs.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - ABS Business Register (2005/06 to 2018/19)
    - Business Characteristics Survey (2005/06 to 2018/19)
    - Business Characteristics Management Capabilities Module (2015-16)
    - Business Expenditure on Research and Development (2004/05 to 2017/18)
    - Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development (2008/09 to 2018/19)
    - Research and Experimental Development, Government (2008/09 to 2018/19)
    - Economic Activity Survey (2006/07 to 2018/19)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Business Income Tax (2001/02 to 2016/17)

    - Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data

    - Merchandise Imports and Exports

    - Energy Water and Environment Survey
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics







    - Australian Taxation Office


    - Intellectual Property Australia

    - Department of Home Affairs

    - Clean Energy Regulator
    SA Government Business Research Environment – Extract (2000/01 to 2018-19)
    - Return to Work SA (2000/01 to 2019/19)
    - Revenue SA (2000/01 to 2019/19)
    - Business Grants
    - Business Migration Sponsorship Applications
    - Sector profiles
    SA Department of Premier and Cabinet

    Measuring and accelerating Australian entrepreneurial dynamism

    Commencement date: 10/02/2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will undertake the first systematic assessment of innovation-driven entrepreneurs and ecosystems supporting Australian entrepreneurial dynamism.

    The project will assess both the quantity and quality of Australian entrepreneurship across time and place, the contribution of Australian start-ups in shaping economic metrics, such as job creation and output (revenue), and the role of local and State initiatives in supporting the growth of these start-ups.

    Benefits

    This research will assist with the development of innovation and entrepreneurship strategies / policies and aid their evaluation. It will provide important insights into the efficacy and impact of innovation and entrepreneurship programs, and has the potential to influence federal, state and local government strategies relating to innovation, entrepreneurship and job creation.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - ABS Business Register (2005/06 to 2018/19)
    - Business Characteristics Survey (2005-06 to 2016-17)
    - Survey of Business Expenditure on Research (2004-05 to 2015-16)
    - Survey of Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development (2008-09 to 2016-17)
    - Survey of Government Expenditure on Research and Development (2008-09 to 2016-17)
    - Economic Activity Survey (2006-07 to 2017-18)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001-02 to 2018-19)
    - Business Income Tax (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Pay as You Go (PAYG) (2001-02 to 2018-19)

    - Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data (2001-02 to 2016-17)

    - Merchandise Imports and Exports (2003-04 to 2018-19)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics







    - Australian Taxation Office



    - IP Australia

    - Department of Home Affairs
    Longitudinal Australian Business Integrated Intelligence (LABii) database (2000-01 to 2018-19)Queensland University of Technology

    Industrial energy productivity: To what extent is there a gap between frontier and laggard firms?

    Commencement date: July 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The project, led by the Department of Environment and Energy, seeks to understand business energy decisions by investigating micro-level energy productivity, and the extent to which there is an energy productivity gap. This information will allow for more targeted policy development to address energy market failures, in turn providing greater value for money from government expenditure.

    Benefits

    This project will lead to enhanced capability across government to target and design policies that assist firms to improve their energy productivity.

    The project will enhance the analytical capability of BLADE for future use cases by the inclusion of longitudinal data on energy use and emissions for ABS business register entities. This means it will be possible to investigate the impact of energy policies on firm energy use behaviour.

    New policies to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs for businesses will also be developed on the foundation of understanding of the nuances of energy productivity within industries. This has important implications for emissions reductions targets, and ensuring that firms are able to compete both domestically and internationally.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - Indicative items from the ABS Business Register (2001-02 to 2018-19)

    - ABS Business Characteristics Survey (2005-06 to 2016-17)
    - ABS Business Characteristics Survey: Management Capabilities Module (2015-16)
    - ABS Survey data: Business Expenditure on Research and Development (2004-05 to 2015-16)
    - ABS Survey Data: Economic Activity Survey (2004-05 to 2016-17)
    - ABS Survey data: Government Expenditure on Research and Development (2008-09 to 2016-17)
    - ABS Survey data: Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development (2008-09 to 2016-17)

    - Business Activity Statement (2006-07 to 2018-19)
    - Business Income Tax (2001-02 to 2018-19)
    - Pay As You Go (PAYG) (2001-02 to 2018-19)

    - Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data (2001-02 to 2016-17)

    - Merchandise Imports and Exports data (2003-04 to 2019-19)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics








    - Australian Taxation Office



    - IP Australia

    - Department of Home Affairs
    Research & Development Tax Incentive (2011/12 to 2018/19)
    Research and Development Tax Concession & Offsets (2001/02 to 2011/12)
    Enterprise Connect Grants Program (2007/08 to 2016/17)
    Enterprise Connect services program (2003/04 to 2016/17)
    Textile Clothing and Footwear Programs (2001/02 to 2016/17)
    Commercialisation Australia Grants (2009/10 to 2018/19)
    Entrepreneurs Program (2014/15 to 2018/19)
    Centre for Defence Industry Capability Grants (2016/17 to 2018/19)
    Centre for Defence Industry Capability Services (2016/17 to 2018/19)
    Clean Tech Grants Program data (2011/12 to 2016/17)
    Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources

    R&D spillover effects of Australian business by fields of research

    Commencement date: July 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    While the existence of spillovers is a key rationale for the Australian Government to subsidise R&D activity in the business sector, there is insufficient data and analysis of the existence and level of R&D spillovers in private and public sectors. Using econometric techniques and firm level data, this research project will produce aggregate and detailed estimates of R&D spillovers by field of research in Australia.

    Benefits

    The project aims to provide an improved understanding of spillover effects and social benefits from R&D, particularly what type of research produces higher level of spillovers. This will provide valuable evidence for the design and evaluation of the R&D Tax Incentive and R&D public policy in general, potentially leading to more effective government programs and reducing costs in program delivery.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - Indicative items (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - ABS Business Expenditure on Research and Development, 2004-05 through 2015-16
    - ABS Government and Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development, 2006-07 through 2012-13
    - ABS Government Expenditure on Research and Development, 2008-09 through 2016-17

    - Business Activity Statement (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Business Income Tax (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Pay as You Go (PAYG) (2001-02 to 2016-17)

    - Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data (2001-02 to through 2015-16)

    - Merchandise Export Data (2003-04 to 2017-18)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics




    - Australian Taxation Office



    - IP Australia

    - Department of Home Affairs
    Research & Development Tax Incentive (RDTI) 2011-12 through 2016-17
    Research and Development Tax Concession & Offsets (RDTC) 2001-02 through 2011-12
    Department of Industry, Innovation, and Science
    RDTI Spillovers project, 2011-12 to 2016-17 (new project-level dataset linked to RDTI)Department of Industry, Innovation, and Science

    Expanding and improving the DIIS Program Analytics Tool

    Commencement date: July 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    A Program Analytics Tool (PAT) prototype was developed by the Department of Industry, Innovation, and Science (DIIS) in collaboration with the ABS in 2017-18. This involved analysis of BLADE data to produce descriptive reports on DIIS program participants. The PAT prototype can be used to explore key attributes and the performance of firms that participate in portfolio programs and compare them with industry benchmarks.

    This project will build on the PAT prototype to undertake further analysis in BLADE to update and further improve the PAT, with the view of the results informing the Productivity Commission’s Trade and Assistance Review publication in the future. The PAT tool will also be produced in a way that makes it easier for other Commonwealth agencies as well as State Governments (who provide assistance to businesses) to integrate their program data into BLADE to produce similar results in the future.

    Benefits

    The PAT will provide a customisable user interface (with the ability to generate interactive charts and tables) for reporting the characteristics and performance of firms that participate in business assistance programs.

    This will:

    • support effective program evaluation and design, resulting in improved services for businesses
    • support the design and refinement of more targeted and cost effective programs, which reduces the cost of government services and enhances the capability for evidence-based policy
    • enhance the transparency of DIIS programs by sharing more insights from them
    • enhance the capability within other agencies that provide business assistance when DIIS’s experience in building this tool is shared
    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - Indicative items from the ABS Business Register (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - ABS Business Characteristics Survey (2005-06 to 2016-17)
    - ABS Business Characteristics Survey: Management Capabilities Module (2015-16)
    - ABS Survey data: Business Expenditure on Research and Development (2004-05 to 2015-16)
    - ABS Survey data: Government Expenditure on Research and Development (2008-09 to 2016-17)
    - ABS Survey data: Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development (2008-09 to 2016-17)
    - ABS Survey Data: Economic Activity Survey (2006-07 to 2016-17)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Business Income Tax (2001/02 to 2018/19)
    - Pay As You Go payment summaries (2001/02 to 2018/19)

    - Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data (2001-02 to 2016-17)

    - Merchandise Imports and Exports (2003-04 to 2017-18)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics







    - Australian Taxation Office



    - IP Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Department of Home Affairs
    Research & Development Tax Incentive (RDTI) (2011/12 to 2018/19)
    Research and Development Tax Concession & Offsets (RDTC) (2001/02 to 2011/12)
    Entrepreneurs Program Grants (EPG) – (2014/15 to 2018/19)
    Commercialisation Australia Grants Programme (CAG) (2009/10 to 2018/19)
    Textile Clothing and Footwear Grants (TCFG) (2006/07 to 2016/17)
    Enterprise Connect Grants Programme (2007/08 to 2016/17)
    Enterprise Connect Services program (2003/04 to 2016/17)
    Clean Tech Grants Program data (2011/12 to 2016/17)
    Centre for Defence Industry Capability Grants (2016/17 to 2018/19)
    Centre for Defence Industry Capability Services (2016/17 to 2018/19)
    Industry Growth Centre initiative program (2015/16 to 2018/19)
    Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources

     

    Indigenous environmental programs: Socio-economic analysis

    Commencement date: July 2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The project, led by the Department of the Environment and Energy, will assess, discover and synthesise new evidence in existing government datasets that highlight the return on investment from Australian Government support for Indigenous environmental programs. The project will also generate insights to support new targets to measure progress on securing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people’s distinctive spiritual, physical and economic relationship with the land and waters.

    Benefits

    The project will produce strategies, pathways, and data management practices that enable the synthesis of a broad evidence base and a more accurate estimation of the returns on government investment across programs, regions and communities. It is expected this evidence will yield policy insights that will assist in refining program design and delivery to maximise social and economic outcomes.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - Indicative items from the ABS Business Register (2001/02 – 2016/17)

    - Business Activity Statement
    - Business Income Tax
    - Pay As You Go payment summaries (2001/02 - 2016/17)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office

    Supply Nation Data (1 April 2019)
    Population coverage: Indigenous Suppliers within the Supply Nation Indigenous Business Directory.
    Supply Nation (via CSIRO)
    ORIC Data (15 May 2019)
    Population coverage: Corporations that are registered under the CATSI Act on the Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (ORIC).
    Office of the Registrar of Indigenous Corporations (via CSIRO)

    Impact assessment of Austrade's services

    Commencement date: 08/10/2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project assists Austrade to establish a set of consistent, objective methodologies designed to provide robust quantitative estimates of the impact of many of Austrade’s services and programs on promoting Australia’s trade and investment. The outcomes can provide evidence on how Austrade assists to strengthening Australia’s export base and investment while shedding light on the areas that require Austrade’s further attention.

    Benefits

    The project will allow the effectiveness of Austrade programs services to be assessed. Outputs from the project will be used to assess the efficacy programs and services designed to bolster export activity, infrastructure development and regional development. In addition, outputs from the project will be used to develop methodologies used to assess the effectiveness of future programs.

    DatasetData Custodian

    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - ABS Business Register (2001/02 to 2016/17)
    - Business Characteristics Survey (BCS) (2005-06 to 2016-17)
    - BCS: Management Capabilities Module (2015-16)
    - Business Expenditure on Research and Development (2004-05 to 2015-16)
    - Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development (2008-09, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2016-17)
    - Government Expenditure on Research and Development (2008-09, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2016-17)
    - Economic Activity Survey (2004-05 to 2016-17)

    - Business Activity Statement (2001/02 to 2016/17)
    - Business Income Tax (2001/02 to 2016/17)
    - Payment Summaries (PAYG) (2001/02 to 2016/17)

    - Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data (IPLORD) (2001-02 to 2016-17)

    - Merchandise Exports data (2003-04 to 2017-18)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics


     




    - Australian Taxation Office



    - IP Australia

    - Department of Home Affairs

    Relationship Management System (2012-13 to 2016-17)
    - including Exports Market Development Grants (EMDG) data (2001-02 to 2016-17))
    Austrade

    BLADE Merchandise Exports Integration

    Commencement date: 13/09/2019
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project seeks to expand the utility of the BLADE asset by including information about Merchandise Exports.

    Benefits

    Exports represent a key metric used to assess economic performance and innovation. Integrating this data will enrich program and policy analysis.

    DatasetData Custodian

    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)

    - ABS Business Register (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Economic Activity Survey (2006-07 to 2016-17)
    - Business Characteristics Survey Data (2005-06 to 2016-17)
    - Business Characteristics Survey: Management Capabilities Module (MCM) variables (2015-16)
    - Business Expenditure on Research and Development (BERD) (2004/05 – 2016/11)
    - Private Non-Profit Expenditure on Research and Development (PNPERD) (2008-09, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2016-17)
    - Government Expenditure on Research and Development (GOVERD) (2008-09, 2011-12, 2012-13, 2014-15, 2016-17)

    - Business Activity Statement (BAS) (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Business Income Tax (BIT) (2001-02 to 2016-17)
    - Pay As You Go (PAYG) payment summaries (2001-02 to 2016-17)

    - Intellectual Property Longitudinal Research Data (2002 to 2017)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics


    - Australian Bureau of Statistics







    - Australian Taxation Office



    - IP Australia
    Merchandise Exports data (2001-02 to 2017-18)Department of Home Affairs

    Improving infrastructure and housing outcomes in metropolitan Western Australia

    Commencement date: 29/07/2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will link sales data for select dwellings in Western Australia to the 2016 Census of Population and Housing to provide additional information about preferences of dwelling type and location in the Perth and Peel regions.

    The integrated dataset will be used for policy and research purposes, including:

    • Estimating a bid-rent function, which will fill a key data gap for metropolitan Western Australia
    • Informing the placement of train station precincts for the Metronet project
    • Informing land use planning to maximise economic and community benefit

    Benefits

     

    The integrated dataset will input into a land use simulation/forecasting model under development by the WA Department of Planning, Lands, and Heritage.

    The public benefits of the project include:

    • Improved allocation of public funding for infrastructure projects (specifically, informing the optimal placement of train stations for the Metronet project);
    • Providing better measures of progress towards targets in the “Perth and Peel @ 3.5 million” strategy; and
    • Developing data integration capability in state government to support evidence-based policy making.
    DatasetData Custodian
    2016 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Western Australia Valuer-General dataDepartment of Planning, Lands, and Heritage, Western Australia

    BLADE - Business establishment dates

    Commencement date: 23/11/2018
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project will combine Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) data with the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) to develop an alternative measure for business establishment dates. This will be analysed in conjunction with other BLADE data, e.g. Pay As You Go and Business Income Tax data, to explore business-level drivers into productivity growth (e.g. innovation and capital formation). The ASIC data will be combined with BLADE specifically for use in this project. The results of this project will inform future BLADE development work regarding business establishment dates.

    Benefits

    Outputs from this project will be used to inform policy into micro-economic drivers of productivity, wage setting, and business finance.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) (2001-02 to 2015-16)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    ASIC Company and Business Name (extract as at 27/11/2018)Australian Securities and Investments Commission

    Wage subsidies and business dynamics

    Commencement date: 04/10/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    While government funded employment services help around 30,000 job seekers find jobs each month, little is known about the businesses hiring these job seekers.

    This project has been funded under the Data Integration Partnership for Australia (DIPA) to investigate the characteristics of the businesses that have hired job seekers from the government funded employment services under the Job Services Australia program.

    Building on this analysis, the project will expand to consider how government provided wage subsidies affect business dynamics, for example, growth in business size and/or business sustainability.

    The Employment Services System data will be combined with BLADE specifically for use in this project and will not become part of the BLADE asset for use in other projects.

    Benefits

    The findings will inform policy development and program delivery and evaluation, and shape future related research.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) (2013-14 to 2015-16)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Employment Services System (2013-14 to 2015-16)Department of Jobs and Small Business

    Review of Australian Research Council grant applications

    Commencement date: 06/09/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    Researchers will review grant applications made to the Australian Research Council and compare characteristics of institutions that were successful in their applications with those who were unsuccessful.

    Benefits

    This project will provide insight into the factors contributing to successful and unsuccessful grant applications made to the Australian Research Council.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Business FrameAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Australian Research Council Grant dataAustralian Research Council
    IP Australia dataIP Australia
    Business Activity Statement
    Pay As You Go
    Business Income Tax
    Australian Taxation Office

    Industry and employment dynamics in South Australia - Pilot

    Commencement date: 13/06/2018
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project will pilot the integration of data from the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) and South Australian Government datasets for the financial year 2015/16 only, in order to assess the feasibility of creating an evidence base to better understand overall employment and industry performance in South Australia and inform economic policy development.

    The project is being coordinated by the SA Department of Premier and Cabinet.

    Benefits

    More informed economic development policy will enhance well-being for South Australians through effective government programs. As a pilot project a key benefit will be to evaluate the cost benefit of and potential future utility of the integrated datasets for informing public policy.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Activity Statement
    Business Income Tax
    Pay As You Go - Client Extract Data
    Australian Taxation Office
    Return to Work SA administrative data (businesses registered for WorkCover insurance)ReturnToWorkSA
    RevenueSA administrative data (businesses paying State taxes)RevenueSA
    SA Government business grants administrative dataDepartment of Industry and Skills

    BLADE - Business location data

    Commencement date: 08/08/2017
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project explored combining business tax data and Australian Business Number (ABN) information to enhance identification of firm establishment and closure dates and business location.

    Benefits

    This project seeks to improve the quality of the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE) by refining business location and better identifying new firms. These improvements will assist researchers to conduct better spatial analysis using BLADE.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Pay As You Go (PAYG) – Client Extract DataAustralian Taxation Office

    Experimental industry estimates of children in the workforce

    Commencement date: 09/03/2016
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    Improved data on children working in different industries is required to compile a more accurate industry based labour account.

    Information on child workers has already been provided from Personal Income Tax data, by using the date of birth to identify those aged 15 or less. This project allowed that information to be categorised by industry, by linking the personal income tax data to the industry of the business on the Business Activity Statement or Business Income Tax files.

    Benefits

    Aggregated outputs from this project informed the distribution of child workers across the industry divisions to be applied to survey based data.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Activity Statement
    Business Income Tax
    Personal Income Tax
    Australian Taxation Office

    Estimating agglomeration elasticities for wider economic benefits in transport projects

    Commencement date: 29/10/2015
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This study investigated the feasibility of estimating the parameters that are needed in measuring one of the three Wider Economic Benefits (WEBs) of transport – agglomeration economies. Agglomeration economies are benefits that flow to firms and workers located in close proximity and can emerge from increased opportunities for input sharing, including labour, technological spillovers, and output sharing.

    Specifically, the study assessed the feasibility of compiling a firm level dataset from available ABS data, and estimating agglomeration elasticities for the Metropolitan Melbourne and Sydney area using production functions which calculate the relationship between the quantity of inputs used by a firm and the quantity of output it produces with them. The study also examined the feasibility of constructing small area estimates of output for the estimation of agglomeration economies.

    Geographical information from the Australian Business Register was linked with Tax data and used to estimate the parameters of the production function in relation to Australian transport projects at the micro level.

    Benefits

    The Australian Transport Assessment and Planning Guidelines provide the guidelines on the use and estimation of WEBs in Australia. These guidelines require a robust set of locally based productivity elasticity estimates for measuring agglomeration economies (i.e. agglomeration elasticities) which is not currently available in Australia due to limited data availability.

    Improving the estimation of agglomeration elasticities helps to address these WEB measurement gaps and improve the understanding and assessment of the links between transport investments and economic benefits that are not captured by traditional cost-benefit analysis.

    DatasetData Custodian

    ABS Annual Integrated Survey data (2011-12)
    ABS Australian Business Register (2011-12)

    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Business Activity Statement Unit Record Estimates (2011-12)
    Business Income Tax (2011-12)
    Australian Taxation Office

    Publications/Results

    The feasibility report has been published in Appendix B of the KPMG/DIRD report.

    14/12/2017 - ABS Methodological news, Dec 2017 (cat. no. 1504.0)
    Features the outcomes of the feasibility study.

    Agricultural business and personal income tax feasibility study

    Commencement date: 07/05/2015
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project tested the feasibility of integrating Business Income Tax data of agricultural businesses with the Personal Income Tax data.

    Benefits

    This linkage has the potential to provide information about individuals engaged in agricultural activity, including estimating off-farm income and feeding into evaluations of the viability of agricultural activity.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Income Tax
    Personal Income Tax
    Australian Taxation Office

    Assessing the impact of logging regulation upon business size

    Commencement date: 05/02/2015
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project linked Integrated Cargo System data with the ABS Common Frame to provide a proxy for business size and facilitate a deeper understanding of the impacts of logging regulations on businesses by business size.

    Benefits

    The statistical information from this project allowed the Department of Agriculture to advise the Government on policy and program responses, and provided more informed statistics to enable the analysis of regulatory impacts on logging businesses, in particular impacts upon businesses of different sizes.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Common FrameAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Integrated Cargo SystemAustralian Bureau of Agriculture and Resource Economics and Sciences

    Small business participation in Commonwealth procurement

    Commencement date: 18/09/2014
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    This project will provide annual information to measure the effectiveness of procurement policy. The project will provide information on both small business participation (i.e. businesses with less than 20 employees) and small-to- medium business participation (i.e. businesses with less than 200 employees). Participation is measured as a proportion of total contracts awarded as well as proportions of total value of contracts awarded.

    Benefits

    This project will provide the Department of Finance and Treasury with information to inform and better target the government’s Small Business policy agenda.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Australian Business Register (2017/18, 2018/19, 2019/20)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    AusTender Contract Dataset (2017/18, 2018/19, 2019/20)Department of Finance

    Analysis of the financial performance of participants in the Enterprise Connect program

    Commencement date: 12/11/2013
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project assessed the pre and post program performances of businesses that received a review from the Enterprise Connect program run by the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science.

    The project helped answer policy questions about whether firms that participated in the program experienced a change in their financial performance after a business review, and how the businesses were performing prior to the review.

    Benefits

    The outputs of this project assisted the Department of Industry, Innovation and Science to assess the merits of the Enterprise Connect Program, thereby encouraging informed decision making by government.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Common FrameAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Business Income Tax
    Business Activity Statements
    Australian Taxation Office
    Enterprise Connect RecordsDepartment of Industry, Innovation and Science

    Characteristics of Australian exporters

    Commencement date: 12/11/2013
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    This is the only ABS project that provides data on the business characteristics, rather than economic summary, of exporting firms. This project also supports regular customised data requests, and other ad hoc consultancies.

    Benefits

    The published outputs, customised data requests, and ad hoc consultancies meet the information needs of a number of government agencies – including Austrade and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).

    This project makes use of existing data sources only and as such places no additional data collection burden on the public.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Australian Business RegisterAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Business Activity StatementAustralian Taxation Office
    International Merchandise Trade (monthly)
    Exports; Imports
    Department of Home Affairs

    Publications/Results

    21/08/2019 - Characteristics of Australian Exporters, 2017-18 (cat. no. 5368.0.55.006)
    This publication provides an analysis of the number and characteristics of Australia's exporters.

    Clean Energy Regulator and ABS Business Register Data Integration Project

    Commencement date: December 2012
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project combined Renewable Energy Certificate Transactions data provided by the Clean Energy Regulator with the Australian Business Register to develop macroeconomic statistics on Renewable Energy schemes that are used in the National Accounts, Balance of Payments and Government Finance Statistics.

    Benefits

    The macroeconomic statistics that were developed by this project are now included in a range of ABS publications.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Australian Business RegisterAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Renewable Energy Certificate Transactions dataClean Energy Regulator

    Migration

    Released
    13/12/2021

    Rename of MADIP to PLIDA

    The Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) was renamed the Person Level Integrated Data Asset (PLIDA) in 2023. Historical documents and projects retain their references to MADIP.

    Migration's Impact on Australian Society

    Commencement date: July 2019
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This project, led by the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, explores the various impacts of international migration on Australia.

    Benefits

    This project aims to contribute to the evidence base for a broad range of policies, including migration program planning, migration labour market rules, and Commonwealth revenue management.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)
    - Personal Income Tax – Payment Summary (2010/11 to 2017/18)
    - Medicare Consumer Directory (2011-2016)
    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative data (2012-2016)
    - Registries deaths data (2007-2017)
    - Migration data (2000-2019)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Taxation Office
    - Services Australia
    - Department of Social Services
    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages
    - Department of Home Affairs
    BLADE core data (2001-02 to 2018-19):

    - ABS Business Register

    - Business Activity Statement
    - Payment Summaries (employer)
    - Business Income Tax
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office

    Personal Income Tax and Migrants Integrated Dataset (PITMID)

    Commencement date: 28/05/2012
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    This project combines the settlement records of migrants to Australia who were granted a permanent visa since 2000 with personal income tax records to produce the Personal Income Tax and Migrants Integrated Dataset (PITMID).

    PITMID enables more detailed analyses of labour market and fiscal contributions of migrants to the economy by visa class and type of personal income, enabling policy makers and researchers to better understand the migrant experience and their economic contribution to Australia.

    The PITMID project initially began in 2013 with a linking feasibility study utilising 2009-10 and 2010-11 Personal Income Tax data (see Research Paper: Feasibility Study of Linking Migrant Settlement Records to Personal Income Tax Data, Aug 2014, cat. no. 1351.0.55.051). Further information about the PITMID linkage and the change in methodology in 2016 can be found in Research Paper: Personal Income Tax and Migrants Integrated Dataset (PITMID) 2011-12 Quality Assessment, Oct 2016 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.060).

    Data is annual and commenced with the 2009-10 financial year.

    Benefits

    This project assists policy makers to further understand, respond and refine migrant labour market programs and economic policy.

    Utilising high quality Government data available to the public ensures improved transparency of the effects of Government policy and informs public debate on issues relating to migration and migrant settlement, without the additional cost or respondent burden that comes from establishing new statistical collections.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Personal Income TaxAustralian Taxation Office
    Permanent Migrants data
    Traveller Characteristics data
    Department of Social Services
    Department of Home Affairs

    Publications/Results

    29/11/2019 - Personal Income of Migrants, Australia, 2016-17 (cat. no. 3418.0)
    This publication presents a cross section of key results from the Personal Income Tax and Migrants Integrated dataset (PITMID) for the 2016-17 financial year and presents some comparisons with data for the previous financial year.

    23/01/2019 - Microdata: Personal Income of Migrants, Australia (cat. no. 3418.0.55.001)
    The PITMID data is available in the ABS DataLab. This release provides access to the sample microdata file.

    19/10/2016 - Research Paper: Personal Income Tax and Migrants Integrated Dataset (PITMID) 2011-12 Quality Assessment, Oct 2016 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.060)
    This paper provides background to the quality study conducted to assess the effects of a change in the linking methodology introduced in 2016 for the 2011-12 PITMID linkage.

    22/08/2014 - Research Paper: Feasibility Study of Linking Migrant Settlement Records to Personal Income (cat. no. 1351.0.55.051)
    This paper provides background to the feasibility study, a brief description of the linking strategy and process, and an assessment of the quality of the linking.

    Exploring Census Population, Migration, and Imputation

    Commencement date: 05/05/2018
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This feasibility study assessed the potential of data sources, such as the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) Client Register and Personal Income Tax data, to:

    • Provide information on population movements, particularly in comparison with information collected in the Census regarding usual address 1 and 5 years ago; and
    • Improve imputation of basic demographics and characteristics of people in non-responding households

    Benefits

    If shown to be feasible, the use of these data sources may improve Census data quality, reduce the amount of information required from respondents, and reduce the cost of running the Census.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    2016 Census of Population and Housing
    Post Enumeration Survey
    Address Register
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    ATO Client Register
    Personal Income Tax
    Australian Taxation Office

    Australian Census and Temporary Entrants Integrated Dataset (ACTEID)

    Commencement date: 01/09/2015
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    Combining Temporary Visa Holder data with Census data provides additional information on temporary visa holders and their labour market participation, income, and other non-economic activities such as education, housing, and caring arrangements.

    The project began with a feasibility study in 2014 (see Assessing the Suitability of Temporary Migrants Administrative Data for Data Integration cat. no. 1351.0.55.053). A quality study followed in 2015 utilising the 2011 Census data to assess the feasibility of linking (see Assessing the Quality of Linking Temporary Visa Holders Administrative Data to the 2011 Census cat. no. 1351.0.55.061).

    Benefits

    The benefits of this project include:

    • Provides government, researchers, and the community with vital information on outcomes for temporary entrants arriving under different policy settings (e.g. international students and temporary workers)
    • Will assist government to assess policies and programs in relation to temporary entrants so that they continue to deliver maximum benefits to the Australian economy and society
    DatasetsData Custodians
    2016 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Temporary Visa Holders data
    Traveller Characteristics data
    Department of Home Affairs

    Publications/Results

    14/02/2019 - Insights from the Australian Census and Temporary Entrants Integrated Dataset, 2016 (cat. no. 3419.0)
    This publication provides new insights into the characteristics of temporary residents in Australia previously not available, including employment, income and housing from the 2016 Australian Census and Temporary Entrants Integrated Dataset.

    14/02/2019 – Microdata: Australian Census and Temporary Entrants Integrated Dataset, 2016 (cat. no. 3419.0.55.001)
    This release relates to microdata from the 2016 Australian Census and Temporary Entrants Integrated Dataset.

    20/03/2017 - Assessing the Quality of Linking Temporary Visa Holders Administrative Data to the 2011 Census (cat. no. 1351.0.55.061)
    This research paper assessed the quality of linking Temporary Visa Holders (TVH) records with the 2011 Census of Population and Housing.

    05/11/2014 - Research Paper: Assessing the Suitability of Temporary Migrants Administrative Data for Data Integration, Nov 2014 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.053)
    This research paper assessed the suitability of the Temporary Visa Holders (TVH) records for integration with other datasets, including the 2011 Census of Population and Housing.

    Australian Census and Migrants Integrated Dataset (ACMID)

    Commencement date: 25/05/2017
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    Combining 2016 Census of Population and Housing data with administrative data on permanent migrants enables the analysis of a range of demographic, economic, and social variables from the Census relating to the settlement outcomes of permanent migrants (e.g. employment, education, English proficiency, income and housing) by visa.

    The 2016 Australian Census and Migrants Integrated Dataset project is a repeat of the 2011 ACMID project which was undertaken utilising data from the 2011 Census. See entry on Census Data Enhancement: Migrants Settlements Project, 2011 Census for further information.

    Benefits

    The integration of this data enhances the statistical and research value of both datasets by enabling the settlement outcomes of migrants who have arrived in Australia since 1 January 2000 to be analysed in the context of their entry conditions (i.e. their visa type, whether a main or secondary applicant and whether they applied onshore or offshore).

    The project:

    • Provides a better understanding of how well migrants are adjusting to life in Australia and identifies the most important factors for a successful settlement;
    • Provides new and updated statistics on recent migrants in the Skill, Family and Humanitarian and Other Permanent visa streams to inform the development of migration policies.
    DatasetsData Custodians
    2016 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Permanent Migrant data
    Traveller Characteristics data
    Department of Social Services
    Department of Home Affairs

    Publications/Results

    18/07/2018 – Understanding Migrant Outcomes - Insights from the Australian Census and Migrants Integrated Dataset, 2016 (cat. no. 3417.0)
    This publication provides new insights into the characteristics of permanent migrants in Australia, including employment, income and housing from the 2016 Australian Census and Migrants Integrated Dataset.

    18/07/2018 – Microdata: Australian Census and Migrants Integrated Dataset, 2016 (cat. no. 3417.0.55.001)
    This release relates to microdata from the 2016 Australian Census and Migrants Integrated Dataset.

    Traveller Information and Medicare Enrolments Data Integration Project

    Commencement date: 15/07/2017
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    In 2015, the Department of Home Affairs commenced plans to discontinue paper-based Outgoing Passenger Cards. They have been discontinued since 1 July 2017. For more than 50 years, Outgoing Passenger Cards were used as a source of state of residence data for official population estimates.
    The solution to this data source ceasing was to use a range of existing electronic data from the Department of Home Affairs collected about those travelling overseas. However, for a small proportion of cross-border movements, state of residence was missing from existing Home Affairs data sources, and for some this information is now obtained by anonymously linking a person’s electronic movement record to a corresponding Medicare enrolment record.

    Benefits

    This project is necessary for the purposes of compiling legislatively required quarterly state population estimates and (amongst many other uses) underpins distribution of GST revenue and the number of seats each state and territory is entitled to in the House of Representatives. Furthermore, it ensures that the reliability and credibility of state population estimates are upheld.
    This project has facilitated the withdrawal of the Outgoing Passenger Cards which has improved the traveller experience, leading to substantial cost savings and red-tape reduction, reduced impost on individuals being required to fill out the cards, and reduced likelihood of privacy breaches.

    DatasetsData Custodians
    Travel and Immigration Processing SystemDepartment of Home Affairs (now contains Immigration and Border Protection)
    Medicare Enrolments databaseDepartment of Human Services

    Census Data Enhancement: Migrants Settlements Project, 2011 Census

    Commencement date: 14/06/2013
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    The Census Data Enhancement (CDE) Migrants Settlements project combines data from 2011 Census of Population and Housing with Australian Government permanent migrant settlement data (formerly Settlement Database (SDB).

    Benefits

    The integration of this data enhances the statistical and research value of both datasets by enabling the settlement outcomes of migrants who have arrived in Australia since 1 January 2000 to be analysed in the context of their entry conditions (i.e. their visa type, whether a main or secondary applicant and whether they applied onshore or offshore).

    The project:

    • Demonstrated the suitability of the Australian Government permanent migrant settlement data for future integration projects leading to the enhancement of existing statistics and the development of new statistics;
    • Provided new statistics on recent migrants in the Skill, Family and Humanitarian visa streams to inform the development of migration policies.
    DatasetsData Custodians
    2011 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Permanent Migrant Data (formerly Settlement Database)Department of Social Services
    Department of Home Affairs

    Publications/Results

    Data Integration Case Study: Migrants

    14/02/2014 - Microdata: Australian Census and Migrants Integrated Dataset, 2011 (TableBuilder) (cat. no. 3417.0.55.001)
    This product provides a range of information about the release of microdata from the Australian Census and Migrants Integrated Dataset (ACMID), 2011 project.

    19/09/2013 - Understanding Migrant Outcomes - Enhancing the Value of Census Data, Australia, 2011 (cat. no. 3417.0)
    The statistics in this publication were compiled from the Migrants Census Data Enhancement (CDE) integrated dataset, 2011.

    19/08/2013 - Assessing the Quality of Linking Migrant Settlement Records to 2011 Census Data, Aug 2013 (cat. no. 1351.0.55.043)
    This paper provides some background to the 2006 and 2011 Migrants Quality Studies, a brief description of the linking strategy and process, a discussion of the quality of the linking of the permanent migrant settlement data to the 2011 Census, and introduces its potential as an analysis dataset.

    Statistical methodology research

    Released
    13/12/2021

    Rename of MADIP to PLIDA

    The Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) was renamed the Person Level Integrated Data Asset (PLIDA) in 2023. Historical documents and projects retain their references to MADIP.

    Census Futures Project: Using administrative data to improve and support the 2021 Census of Population and Housing

    Commencement date: May 2021
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The Census of Population and Housing (Census) is one of the ABS’ most critical, legislated functions. The ABS is using administrative data to enhance the efficiency and quality of the 2021 Census. This project guides how Census data is collected, improves the quality of the Census count, and may be used to fill data gaps arising from events such as natural disasters.

    Administrative data will be used to: 

    • Help maximise Census response by identifying areas where people may need extra support to complete the Census and having strategies in place to deliver this support.
    • Help improve the Census count by refining our methods to estimate the number of households unoccupied on Census night, and to adjust where necessary to ensure the Census count is accurate.
    • Help us prepare for any unexpected events that could impact the Census response. Identifying other data sources is a key way to be prepared, in case there is a need to fill in any gaps where information has been difficult to collect.

    Administrative data will also be used as part of the quality assurance process, once 2021 Census data have been collected. The ABS doesn’t collect, use or share administrative data to make people comply or to charge or fine people.

    To promote transparency of the work that is being conducted, the ABS has published information on using administrative data for the 2021 Census.

    Benefits

    The Census is critical to informing the planning and delivery of Government and community services, business decisions and academic research. This project will improve the quality of data from the 2021 Census of Population and Housing by supporting strategies to reduce the undercount and overcount of people in Australia on Census night. Better data means better decisions to improve the lives of Australians.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)

    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative Data (2006 to 2021)

    - Personal Income Tax (PIT) (2011 to 2020)
    - Single Touch Payroll (2020 to 2021)

    - Medicare Consumer Directory (2006 to 2020)

    - Medicare Benefits Schedule (2011 to 2021)
    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (2011 to 2021)

    -Death Registrations (2007 to 2019)

    - Migration data (to 2021)

    - Higher Education Information Management System (HEIMS) (2005 to 2021)
    - Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program and Training Contracts (2006 to 2021)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Department of Social Services

    - Australian Taxation Office


    - Services Australia

    - Department of Health


    - State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths and Marriages

    - Department of Home Affairs

    - Department of Education, Skills and Employment
    ABS Address Register (2016 to 2021)

    Census of Population and Housing (2016)

    Census of Population and Housing – Enumeration Management Information Data Items (2016 and 2021)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Travel and Immigration Processing System (TRIPS) (2012 to 2021)Department of Home Affairs
    Rental Vacancies (2016 and 2021) - Commercially available datasetSQM Research Pty Limited
    Electricity data (2016 and 2021)State and Territory electricity providers
    - Jemena (Vic)
    - Aurora Energy (Tas)
    - NT Power and Water Corporation (NT)
    - Evoenergy (ACT)
    - Energex (Qld)
    - Ergon Energy Network (Qld)
    - Horizon Power (WA)
    - Western Power (WA)
    - AusNet Services (Vic)
    - SA Power Networks (SA)
    - Origin Energy (Vic)
    - CitiPower/Powercor/United Energy (Vic)
    - Ausgrid (NSW)
    - Essential Energy (NSW)
    - Endeavour Energy (NSW)
    - Active Utilities (Qld)
    - Energy Trade (NSW)
    - WINconnect (Vic)

    Privacy Impact Assessment

    Survey of Income And Housing Linkage Project

    Commencement date: May 2021
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The ABS Survey of Income and Housing (SIH) collects information about the income, housing and living arrangements of Australian households and how they change over time. This project involves the production of high-quality data from the SIH using integrated data to supplement or substitute reported data. The feasibility of using integrated data across other purposes in SIH will also be explored, including opportunities to reduce future provider and processing burden in SIH through supplementation or substitution of survey data with administrative data.

    Benefits

    Maintaining high quality SIH information is critical for policy makers and researchers seeking data to inform a variety of social issues such as inequality, poverty, housing affordability and costs of living. The use of integrated data for the SIH may also reduce provider and processing burden.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Personal Income Tax (2018-19, 2019-20)

    - DOMINO Centrelink Administrative Data (2019 to 2021)

    - Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program (AAIP) and Training Contracts (2019 to 2021)
    - Higher Education Information Management Systems (HEIMS) (2019 to 2021)
    - Total VET Activity (2019 to 2021)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics


    - Australian Taxation Office

    - Department of Social Services

    - Department of Education, Skills and Employment


     
    Survey of Income and Housing (2019-20, 2020-21)Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Using linked data to investigate non-response due to COVID-19

    Commencement date: April 2020
    Project status: In progress
     

    Project Summary

    This exploratory project will use linked data to investigate non-response and collection mode choice for Labour Force Survey, Survey of Income and Housing and General Social Survey data during suspension of face-to-face interviews due to COVID-19. This work is exploratory and will be used to assess the benefit that could arise from using administrative data to help correct for survey non-response by household characteristics.

    Benefits

    This project will assist in maintaining the quality of statistics by using administrative data to assess whether the weighted survey sample is representative of household characteristics in the populations of interest. The data collected by the Labour Force Survey, Survey of Income and Housing and General Social Survey during the COVID-19 pandemic will be valuable for current policy decisions related to the labour market and households, and for economic and social research in future.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project Basic Longitudinal Extract, 2011-2016 (2011-2016 Cohorts)

    - Census of Population and Housing (2016)
    - Personal Income Tax (2010-11 to 2015-16)
    - Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (2011 to 2016)
    - Social Security and Related Information (2011 to 2016)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Bureau of Statistics
    - Australian Taxation Office
    - Department of Health
    - Department of Social Services
    - ABS Monthly Population Survey sampling frame (April 2020)
    - ABS Survey of Income and Housing sampling frame (April 2020 to June 2021 sample)
    - ABS General Social Survey sampling frame (2020 sample)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Using administrative data to inform impact of COVID-19 crisis on businesses

    Commencement date: 11 May 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The pilot study aims to examine whether electricity data could be used to enhance or bolster ABS economic statistics, or to produce more timely indicators that would be of value in the context of disruptions due to COVID-19.

    Benefits

    The advantages of using electricity consumption data are the coverage and ability to show timely changes. Analysis of electricity consumption data can complement other household and economic statistics in supporting evidence-based policy making in the current uncertain environment. The data also presents unique opportunities to expand and enhance ABS’ suite of statistical products.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Address Register Common Frame (February 2020)Australian Bureau of Statistics
    ABS Business Register Common Frame (March 2020)

    ABS Business Register Locations Dataset (2018-2019)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Jemena electricity data (1 January 2020 to 31 May 2020, 1 January 2016 to 31 May 2016)Jemena Electricity Networks
    CitiPower electricity data (1 January 2020 to 31 May 2020, 1 January 2016 to 31 May 2016)CitiPower

    Publications/Results

    International student data to MADIP

    Commencement date: February 2020
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project uses international student data from the Provider Registration and International Students Management System and Department of Education, Skills and Employment, to assess the quality of existing linkage to migration data on the MADIP person linkage spine (‘the spine’). It will determine the feasibility of using international student data to enhance coverage of the spine, with the possibility of birthing new units onto the spine. The data will be integrated as a once-off linkage.

    Benefits

    Spine quality is important for improving linkage rates for all research projects seeking to link into MADIP, in particular, projects seeking to understand migrant populations. Improving spine coverage and quality will lead to better analysis and policy outcomes.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)

    - Personal Income Tax (2010-11 to 2015-16)
    - Social Security and Related Information (2010/11 to 2015/16)
    - Medicare Enrolments Database (2011 to 2016)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    - Australian Taxation Office
    - Department of Social Services

    - Department of Health
    Extraction from the Provider Registration and International Students Management system (2016 to 2019)Department of Education, Skills and Employment

    Administrative data research into improving income statistics

    Commencement date: 17/04/2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project is researching how linked administrative data could improve the Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) and the Census.

    The project links data from the 2015-16 HIES to the Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) integrated asset (specifically Census, personal income tax, and social security data). The linked data will not form part of the enduring MADIP asset.

    The research is investigating the potential of these data to:

    • Improve the collection of data to reduce the cost and burden on the taxpayer and respondents
    • Supplement the range of income statistics the ABS provides to the Australian community
    • Improve the quality of income data collected in the HIES and the Census

    Benefits

    Information on personal and household income is critical to informing the planning and delivery of Government and community services, business decisions and academic research. Better data means better decisions to improve the lives of Australians.

    The project will provide public value through:

    • Potential improvement of the quality of ABS income statistics
    • Potential reduced costs for the ABS’ Household Survey Program
    • Understanding of potential new statistical solutions based on linked administrative data, contributing to better policy outcomes and more targeted public spending
    DatasetData Custodian
    Census of Population and Housing (Census) 2016
    Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) 2015-16
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Payment Summaries Data (PAYG) 2015/16, 2016/17
    Personal Income Tax (2010/11 -2015/16)
    Australian Taxation Office
    Social Security and Related Information (SSRI) 2016Department of Social Services

    Multi-location businesses project

    Commencement date: 29/03/2019
    Project status: Complete

    Project Summary

    Multi-location businesses tend to report their business activity from their head office. As a result, business data is heavily biased to the location of the head office, when in reality much of the business activity may be taking place elsewhere around Australia. This leads to an unknown number (and location) of business locations associated with these large, complex businesses, making it difficult to accurately estimate the count and location of business premises across Australia.

    This project aimed to take the first steps towards resolving this problem.

    This project evaluated the use of the Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) (specifically Census and personal income tax data) and the ABS Business Register to determine whether Census business location information (noted down by people on their Census form) can provide some insights into the multiple locations of large businesses.

    The project was for internal research and development purposes only.

    Benefits

    More accurate business location information may provide governments and researchers with a better understanding of the drivers of economic activity across Australia. Policy makers and researchers will be able to undertake analysis on the location information and composition of businesses and will also be able to track the growth and decline of businesses and their locations from Census to Census, enabling a better understanding of the direct regional effects of structural changes in the economy.

    DatasetData Custodian
    2016 Census of Population and Housing
    ABS Business Register
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Personal Income Tax (2015-16)
    - Income Tax Returns; and
    - Payment Summaries (PAYG)
    Australian Taxation Office

    Publications/Results

    The project has successfully demonstrated the utility of Census business location information to help inform the multi-location business problem. In particular, analysis of the linked file has enabled the identification of approximately 600% more business locations (at the SA2 level) for multi-location businesses than what appear on the ABS Business Register.

    The output from the report will be passed to the Business Register Unit (BRU) to help assist them with their FY 2019/20 project to spatially enable and improve location information on the ABS Business Register.

    Comparing Census and administrative data for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population

    Commencement date: 25/03/2019
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population estimates are critical to the formation of government policy aimed at improving outcomes for this important population. Because of the challenges in sourcing data of sufficient quality, these estimates are currently updated only once every 5 years based on incoming Census data.

    This project is a feasibility study to assess the potential of the Medicare Voluntary Indigenous Identifier (MVII) data to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population estimates. The project links the 2016 Medicare Enrolments Database (MEDB) population to the 2016 Census of Population and Housing to compare MVII with Indigenous status data from the 2016 Census. This project is an important step in building confidence in the MVII data for population estimation.

    This project uses anonymised IDs to protect the privacy of individuals.

    Benefits

    Improved and more frequent estimates should result in better targeting of government funds to relevant regions and communities around Australia.

    This feasibility work continues ABS efforts to uncover potential for improved and more frequent updates of these estimates, which represent a long-standing information gap.

    DatasetData Custodian
    2016 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Medicare Enrolments Database (MEDB): Medicare Voluntary Indigenous Identifier (MVII) data 2015-16Department of Human Services

    BLADE - Business Characteristics Survey weights

    Commencement date: 09/11/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will investigate the feasibility of integrating survey weights from the Business Characteristics Survey (BCS) to an extract of the Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE). The aim of this is to allow the production of BCS estimates by some BLADE data items. For example, BCS data is nominally output by Industry Division and Employment size, however this project may allow outputs to be produced using non-BCS BLADE data items such as derived Turnover from BAS data.

    Note that this project is a feasibility study and thus findings may not ultimately allow for the integration of BCS weights to the BLADE asset. If it does, the integrated dataset will only be used to produce aggregated outputs for approved classification variables for internal analytical projects.

    Benefits

    This project supports research and analysis that feeds into innovation policy development and evaluation in Australia.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Business Characteristics Survey data (2006-07 to 2016-17)
    BLADE extract (2001-02 to 2015-16)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Understanding the quality of Labour Force data in the Census

    Commencement date: 23/10/2018
    Project status: Complete
    Completion Date: June 2019

    Project Summary

    This project sought to understand labour force reporting in the 2016 Census and the August 2016 Labour Force Survey. The ABS will use the results of this project for internal improvement processes.

    Benefits

    Insights from this work will inform the design of the 2021 Census.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Labour Force Survey (August 2016)
    2016 Census of Population and Housing Data
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Outgoing Telephone Contact Feasibility Test

    Commencement date: 02/10/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This project will assess the technical and operational feasibility of contacting ABS survey respondents using outgoing telephone or SMS contact, and will evaluate use of telephone number databases, such as the Telstra Sensis and Integrated Public Number databases, for use in field operations of the ABS household survey program.

    Benefits

    More efficient and effective data collection will minimise costs, and reduce burden on households selected in ABS household surveys, by reducing the number of visits to respondents' homes.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Address Register
    Monthly Population Survey
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Telstra SensisTelstra Sensis
    Integrated Public Number DatabaseAustralian Communications Media Authority

    Publications/Results

    As this work is intended to improve operational efficiency of data collection, no publications are planned.

    AIHW/ABS Interoperability Project

    Commencement date: 06/08/2018
    Project status: Complete

    Project Summary

    The ABS and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) together with the Commonwealth Department of Health and Victorian Department of Health and Human Services are working together to explore ways to connect the integrated data assets held by ABS and AIHW to create enhanced research datasets without needing to duplicate the data integration work already undertaken. The mechanism for achieving this is referred to as interoperability. Interoperability would enable, subject to relevant approvals, in-scope data held by the AIHW or in state agencies where the AIHW has created linkage keys to be combined with data held by the ABS.

    In the first phase of this project, the AIHW and ABS created an interim interoperable spine using the common elements of the Medicare Enrolments Database held at each agency. In the second phase, these linkage keys have been used to assemble a file of combined Victorian community health and MADIP data to enable research for Victorian policy development. The third and final stage prepared a business case exploring data integration operability options and for maintaining an enduring interoperable linkage asset beyond 30 June 2020.

    Benefits

    If interoperability achieves sufficient quality, AIHW and ABS will be better placed to combine data assets for approved research projects, and could do so in a way that enhances privacy, minimises duplication and data transfer.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Medicare Enrolments Database (ABS)
    Medicare Enrolments Database (AIHW)
    Department of Human Services
    Social Services and Related InformationDepartment of Social Services
    Victorian Community Services DataVictorian Department of Health and Human Services

    Trade analysis feasibility project

    Commencement date: 22/05/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary and Benefits

    This project will assess the value of emerging methods and technologies for combining different data sources in order to maximise the usefulness of public sector data, and produce useful information to help inform key policy and research questions, such as around performance and innovation in Australian exporting businesses.

    This project will be internally assessed with learnings to help inform any future directions – any future directions would be separately advertised.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Australian Business Register
    ABS Surveys - Business Characteristics Survey, Economic Activity Survey,
    Business Expenditure on Research and Development, Private Non-Profit Research & Development
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Business Activity Statement
    Business Income Tax
    PAYG Payment Summary (aggregates only: Head count and FTE)
    Australian Taxation Office
    Merchandise exports data - Integrated Cargo Systems data (2013-2016)Department of Home Affairs

    Regression analysis of linked data

    Commencement date: 28/03/2018
    Project status: Complete

    Project Summary

    The ABS worked with academics at the University of Wollongong to develop a program that takes into account the additional uncertainty using linked data creates in producing estimates from regression analysis. When performing regression analysis, there is always some uncertainty in the estimates produced. This uncertainty is greater in linked datasets and may produce consistent errors that over-estimate or under-estimate the measured effect (bias). This project aimed to develop a method of taking potential biases into account when analysing linked data and thus improving estimates based on linked datasets.

    Benefits

    By developing a method to improve regression estimates for linked datasets, the ABS will be able to:

    • Correct for biases for data linked from two sources.
    • Obtain more reliable results for analysing linked data.
    • Expand the available tools within the ABS for analysing linked data.
    DatasetData Custodian
    2016 Census of Population and Housing
    Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset 2011-2016
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Proof of concept for National Crime and Justice Data Linkage project

    Commencement date: 27/03/2018
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This proof of concept study investigates the feasibility of linking administrative datasets from across the criminal justice sector. It will test data integration methodologies and techniques by linking experimental datasets from police, criminal courts, corrective services, and juvenile justice (for selected states and territories only). There are no outputs to be published during this exploratory phase; the intention is to inform the development of the full project for discussion with our key clients, the Justice Boards of Management.

    The project is endorsed by the Council of Australian Governments and delivered in partnership with the National Indigenous Australian Agency and the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

    The exploratory project has been extended to also investigate the feasibility of linking selected experimental justice datasets to other non-justice datasets.

    Benefits

    This project will provide greater insight into the flows of persons through the criminal justice system.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Recorded Crime - OffendersSelected state and territory Police agencies
    Criminal CourtsSelected state and territory Criminal Courts agencies
    Prisoner CensusSelected state and territory Corrective Services agencies
    Juvenile Justice National Minimum DatasetAustralian Institute of Health and Welfare
    Personal Income TaxAustralian Taxation Office

    Use of Big Data to produce Agricultural Statistics

    Commencement date: 26/03/2018
    Project status: On hold

    Project Summary

    The development of methods to enable greater use of Big Data for the production of official statistics has only recently started to grow. This project aims to apply and extend these methods to available ABS agricultural datasets as a proof-of-concept to determine whether the methods can be applied in the ABS context, and if they will lead to the production of more efficient official statistics.

    Benefits

    This project will potentially open up new sources of data for the ABS to use when producing agricultural statistics, resulting in reduced costs and respondent burden, and more frequent and a broader range of statistics.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Rural Environment and Agricultural Commodities Survey (2012-13, 2013-14, 2014-15)
    Agricultural Census (2015-16)
    Australian Bureau of Statistics

    Publications/Results

    Shaw, S and Bell, PA (2019), “Regression data integration and constrained imputation – small domain estimation using an administrative source”, presented at September 2019 Methodology Advisory Committee meeting, Sydney, September 2019

    Pham, H and L Ang (2018), “Regression Data Integration – Results From a Study to Improve the Efficiency of Survey Estimates Using Imperfect Auxiliary Datasets”, presented at November 2018 Methodology Advisory Committee meeting, Sydney, November 2018

    Tam, S-M, J K Kim, L Ang and H Pham (2018), “Mining the New Oil for Official Statistics”, presented at BigSurv18: Exploring new statistical frontiers at the intersection of survey science and big data, Barcelona, October 2018

    Evaluating the quality impact of name encoding on data linkage

    Commencement date: 22/09/2017
    Project status: Completed

    Project Summary

    This internal ABS feasibility study investigated an appropriate method for data linkage that uses name information which is encoded as a privacy protection. The project also assessed the impact of using encoded name on data linkage quality and the ability to produce statistical insights, particularly about migrant and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, given the high policy and research interest in these populations.

    Benefits

    This project will enhance the value of ABS data linkage products by supporting the implementation of best practice for name encoding and data linkage methods.

    DatasetData Custodian
    2016 Census of Population and HousingAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    Births, Deaths, and Marriages Registrar deaths registrations (September 2016 – May 2017)State and Territory Registrars of Births, Deaths, and Marriages
    Medicare Enrolments Database (2010, 2011, 2012)Department of Human Services
    Social Security and Related Information (2011)Department of Social Services

    Census Dwelling Occupancy and Imputation

    Commencement date: 21/09/2017
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    This study will assess the potential of administrative data to inform more efficient data collection and improved data quality for the 2021 Census.

    Key outcomes include:

    • Predicting dwelling occupancy at the time of the 2021 Census
    • Informing the imputation strategy for non-responding dwellings.

    The output will be research and analysis to inform ABS decision making for the 2021 Census.

    Benefits

    The benefits of the project include:

    • More efficient resource allocation for the 2021 Census
    • Improved dwelling imputation for a clearer community profile
    • Filled information gap for housing policy (dwelling vacancy/occupancy rates).
    DatasetData Custodian
    Census of Population and Housing
    Address Register
    Post Enumeration Survey
    Labour Force Survey
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    ATO Client Register
    Income Tax Returns
    Australian Taxation Office
    Social Security and Related InformationDepartment of Social Services
    Residential electricity connections and consumptionElectricity distributors in Australia
    Social Housing RegistersState and Territory Housing Authorities
    Medicare Enrolments DatabaseDepartment of Human Services

    Tax Data Quality Studies

    Commencement date: 09/03/2016
    Project status: In progress

    Project Summary

    The project will assess the quality, completeness, and coherence of taxation data with the aim of assessing taxation data’s potential to substitute, enhance, and expand the ABS statistical program.

    The three broad streams of work for this project are:

    • Improving ATO data quality for statistical purposes;
    • Improving understanding of ATO data coherence and concepts; and
    • Exploring potential use of ATO data in statistical production.

    Benefits

    Most benefits arising from these investigations will be in regards to the data quality of taxation datasets.

    DatasetData Custodian
    ABS Common Frame
    ABS Survey and collection data
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Business Activity Statement
    Business Income Tax
    Payment Summaries
    Personal Income Tax
    Single Touch Payroll
    Australian Taxation Office

    ABS Address Register

    Commencement date: 01/10/2013
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    The ABS Address Register is a current list of all physical address (both residential and non-residential) in Australia. The main input to the register is the Geocoded National Address File (G-NAF), with continuing supplementation from other available address sources and from desktop/field work undertaken by ABS officers.

    Note: No personal information about residents in the addresses are collected or stored on the Address Register.

    Benefits

    The Address Register has enabled improved and more efficient data collection and creation of statistics, including facilitating the production of new datasets that have the potential to expand the range of official statistics to better inform Australian society in the future.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Canvassing data (from field and online research including imagery/mapping sources)
    2016 Census Field operations data
    Building Approvals
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Geocoded National Address File (G-NAF)
    Australian Electoral Commission Land Use Code
    PSMA Australia
    Australia Post Postal Address FileAustralia Post
    RP Data (Residential Property Sales)CoreLogic
    List of Australian Public and Private hospitals
    Aged care Services List
    Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

    ABS Business Register and Common Frame creation

    Commencement date: 30/05/2013
    Project status: Ongoing

    Project Summary

    This project aims to maintain a high quality real-world statistical business register as the basis for coherent and integrated ABS economic data.

    The ABS Business Register is a list of organisations which undertake economic activity in Australia. The data on the ABS Business Register is primarily sourced from the Australian Business Register (ABR), the Australian Tax Office (ATO) and via ABS profiling of large, and/or complex businesses, and the structural relationships between related businesses.

    The key users of the ABS Business Register are ABS staff compiling economic statistics. Another integrating authority would be unable to undertake this project because of legislative constraints. The unit record information on the ABS Business Register is not available for release outside the ABS.

    The ABS Business Register is an ongoing project.

    Benefits

    An integrated infrastructure product from which many economic collections draw their frames is vital for coherence and comparability of economic statistics.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Australian Business Register
    Collection Objects
    Australian Bureau of Statistics
    Australian Tax Office/ABR Client Register Extract
    Business Activity Statement
    Business Income Tax
    Business Location Data
    Single Touch Payroll
    Australian Taxation Office

    Publications/Results

    Annual release - Counts of Australian Businesses, including Entries and Exits (cat. no. 8165.0)
    This release contains counts of actively trading businesses, rates of entry to and exit from the market sector of the Australian economy, and rates of business survival. These data are sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics Business Register.

    Local Government Finance Quality Study

    Commencement date: December 2012
    Project status: Complete

    Project Summary

    The Local Government Finance Quality Study used the ABS Australian Business Register and information from State Auditor General departments to review the quality of coverage for the Local Government Frame produced by the Public Finance section at the ABS.

    Benefits

    This investigation confirmed the existing Local Government Frame was accurately capturing all financial activities of the local government sector.

    Units that were believed to be missing from the frame were not in fact separate corporations or entities. While displaying some characteristics of separate business entities, these units were confirmed to be business activities that were reported within the constituent local councils.

    DatasetData Custodian
    Australian Business RegisterAustralian Bureau of Statistics
    State Auditor General departments' informationState Auditor General departments

    History of changes

    Released
    13/12/2021

    20/10/2022 

    The email address for enquiries has been updated on the Overview page.

    08/09/2022 

    The Health and Education page has been updated to include information on the Post-School Destinations project.

    13/12/2021 

    Updates to project information were made to the following entries: 'Real Time Labour Market Tracker' and 'Exits from Income Support',

    The following projects were added to the Register:

    Health and Education
    Understanding socio-demographic cohorts in the Covid-19 Vaccines Strategy
    National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) – Pathways from education to employment South Australia
    National Disability Data Asset (NDDA) – Identification of people with a disability in linked administrative data
    Veterans Health and Welfare Research

    Industry and the Economy
    Small and medium enterprise loan guarantee APRA data
    Patterns and drivers of wages levels and growth

    Statistical methodology research
    Census Futures Project: Using administrative data to improve and support the 2021 Census of Population and Housing
    Survey of Income And Housing Linkage Project

    03/12/2021

    The Data Assets page has been updated to include information on new enduring linkages to MADIP, including the Total VET Activity (TVA) and the Provider Registration and International Students Management System (PRISMS) datasets.

    19/10/2021

    An additional research paper was linked to the ‘ABS and Department of Social Services Joint Data Integration Initiative’ entry (Demography).

    16/08/2021

    The Data Assets page has been updated to include information on new enduring linkages to MADIP, including the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) datasets.

    30/04/2021

    The Data Assets page has been updated to include additional information about the datasets provided for MADIP by each Data Custodian.

    23/03/2021

    An additional research paper was linked to the Demography project titled ‘ABS and Department of Social Services Joint Data Integration Initiative’.

    The following projects were added to the Register:

    Demography
    2021 Census Post Census Review
    2020 Census Operational Readiness Exercise (ORE)
    Census Person Asset and Contingency Research
    Proof of Concept for Crime and Justice Data Integration

    Environment
    Agricultural Levies assessment for ongoing use in REACS and VACP

    Health and Education
    Their Futures Matter (NSW)
    Total VET Activity linked to MADIP
    Early Childhood Outcomes (NSW)

    Industry and the Economy
    Workplace Agreements Database
    Trademarks and exporting: Evidence from Australian Microdata

    16/10/2020

    Updates to project information were made to the following entries: 'Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)', 'Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)', ‘Intergenerational drivers of entry into the Victorian Child Protection system’, 'Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mortality Project', ‘Industrial energy productivity: To what extend is there a gap between frontier and laggard firms?’, ‘Expanding and improving the DIIS Program Analytics Tool’, ‘Measuring and accelerating Australian entrepreneurial dynamism, ‘BLADE Merchandise Exports integration’, ‘BLADE – business establishment dates’, ‘Industry and Employment Dynamics in South Australia - Pilot’, ‘Characteristics of Australian Exporters’, ‘Small business participation in Commonwealth procurement’, ‘ABS Address Register’, ‘ABS Business Register and Common Frame creation’, ‘Proof of concept for National Crime and Justice Data Linkage project’, ‘Census Dwelling Occupancy and Imputation’, ‘Outgoing Telephone Contact Feasibility Test’, ‘Use of Big Data to produce Agricultural Statistics’, and 'AIHW/ABS Interoperability Project'.

    Minor updates to links were made to: ‘Census Post Enumeration Survey’.

    The following projects were added to the Register:

    Migration
    Migration’s Impact on Australian Society

    Health and Education
    Births data: Coverage study of births registration data and the Person Linkage Spine

    Environment
    Predicting the Value and Use of Urban Land

    Industry and the Economy
    Weekly Payroll Jobs and Wages
    Real Time Labour Market Tracker
    Assessing potential impacts of COVID on firms
    Outcomes of Indigenous Preferential Procurement
    Industry and Employment Dynamics in South Australia – Data update

    Statistical methodology research
    Using linked data to investigate non-response due to COVID-19
    Using administrative data to inform impact of COVID-19 crisis on businesses

    09/06/2019

    Additional data integration projects were added to the categories of Demography, Health and Education, Industry and the Economy, and Statistical methodology research. Updates to publication information were made on the Data assets page.

    17/12/2019

    Updates to project information were made to the 'Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)', 'Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)', 'Linked Employer-Employee Database (LEED)', 'Understanding the quality of Labour Force data in the Census', 'Agricultural Census to BLADE 2015/16', 'Pathways for the Future - Reform Project', 'AIHW/ABS Interoperability Project' and 'Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mortality Project' entries. Minor updates to publications and links were made to the 'Personal Income Tax and Migrants Integrated Dataset (PITMID)' entry.

    The following projects were added to the Register:

    Demography
    Intergenerational drivers of entry into the Victorian Child Protection system

    Environment
    Farm-Level Longitudinal Agricultural Dataset (FLAD)/Effects of Climate Variability on Australian Farms

    Health and Education
    Using linked data to investigate the role of sociodemographic factors in cancer

    Industry and the Economy
    BLADE Merchandise Exports integration
    Impact Assessment of Austrade’s Services

    Statistical methodology research
    Comparing Census and administrative data for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population

    20/09/2019

    Updates to project information were made to the 'Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)', 'Linked Employer-Employee Database (LEED)', 'Multi-location businesses project', and 'Tax Data Quality Studies' entries. Minor updates to publications and links were made to the 'Coordination of Health Care Study', 'Characteristics of Australian Exporters', and 'Use of Big Data to produce Agricultural Statistics' entries.

    The following projects were added to the Register:

    Health and Education
    Transition from education to work

    Industry and the Economy
    Improving infrastructure and housing outcomes in metropolitan Western Australia

    17/06/2019

    Minor updates to publications/links were made to the 'Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP)' and 'Industry and Employment Dynamics in South Australia' project entries. Updates were made to the reference periods listed in the 'Business Longitudinal Analysis Data Environment (BLADE)' dataset table.

    The following projects were added to the Register:

    Demography
    Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mortality Project 2016

    Environment
    Agricultural Census to BLADE 2015/16

    Health and Education
    Direct measure of capacity to contribute for non-government school funding
    Pathways for the Future - Reform Project
    Early Learning and Development integrated dataset

    Industry and the Economy
    BLADE - business establishment dates
    Wage subsidies and business dynamics
    Clean Energy Regulator and ABS Business Register Data Integration Project

    Statistical methodology research
    Administrative data research into improving income statistics
    Multi-location businesses project
    BLADE - Business Characteristics Survey weights
    Proof of concept for National Crime and Justice Data Linkage project
    Local Government Finance Quality Study

    16/04/2019

    Additional data integration projects were added to the categories of Demography, Environment, Health and Education, Industry and the Economy, and Statistical methodology research. Minor updates to publication information were made on the Data assets page (the ACLD and BLADE projects).

    27/03/2019

    Three new categories were added (Environment, Health and Education, and Migration), and additional data integration projects were added to each category. The Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) and the Australian Census Longitudinal Dataset (ACLD) entries on the Data Assets page were updated to reflect new releases.