Over 150 jobs available for the Census Test in 2025

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has begun hiring for over 150 jobs to support Australians taking part in the upcoming Census Test.

The ABS is looking to fill a range of jobs, including Census Field Managers, Field Officers, Mobile Field Representatives, and Community Field Officers.  

Jenny Telford, Census General Manager, said: ‘The Census workforce plays a crucial role in supporting participation in the Census Test and reflects the diverse range of people and communities in Australia.  

‘Before each Census, it’s important to test how we will run it. The Census Test helps improve our processes, making the 2026 Census easier to complete and ensuring the production of high quality statistics.’  

Jobs are available across selected Census Test locations, including Rockhampton, Yeppoon and Gladstone in Queensland, Wheatbelt and Albany in Western Australia, and Coonamble and Gilgandra in New South Wales.  

‘There are a variety of jobs you can apply for near you,’ Ms Telford said.  

‘Jobs may involve delivering Census letters and forms, answering questions from the public, helping households that have not yet responded, or managing a small team of people on the ground in test areas.’  

The Census Test is on Tuesday, 5 August 2025.  

Applications are now open. For more information or to apply, visit www.abs.gov.au/census.   

Job details 

The jobs are short-term, with variable and flexible working hours that include weekdays, weekends and evenings.   

The ABS is looking for people who:  

• are available to complete paid online training prior to starting work in the field
• are available to work variable hours for the period of the contract, including weekdays, weekends and evenings
• are keen to earn extra income in a short-term job
• want to help make a difference for their community.   

For Field Officer jobs, there is no experience needed. The ABS provides all the necessary training, and staff will be supervised and supported to complete the work.   

Hourly rates  

• Field Officers will earn $30.13 an hour (inclusive of 25 per cent loading), plus superannuation.
• Field Managers will earn $41.08 an hour (inclusive of 25 per cent loading), plus superannuation.
• Mobile Field Representatives will earn $38.23 an hour (inclusive of 25 per cent loading), plus superannuation.
• Community Field Officers will earn $32.86 an hour (inclusive of 25 per cent loading), plus superannuation.  

About the Census   

Every five years, the ABS counts every person and household in Australia through the Census of Population and Housing.   

Information from the Census helps governments, businesses and not-for-profit organisations across the country make decisions. It informs planning for schools, health care, transport and infrastructure. It is also used by community groups to help plan local services for individuals, families and communities.   

The next Census will be held in August 2026.