ABS reminds Australians to answer the religion question according to their own beliefs

The ABS is aware of campaigns aimed at influencing individuals’ responses to the 2026 Census question on religion.  

Material is circulating online and through social media that suggests people respond in a way that is inconsistent with the intent of the question. 

The question on religion measures a person’s religious affiliation, which may be different from their practice of, or participation in, religious activities.  

Religious affiliation refers to the religion a person nominates an association with. This may be different from their religious practices or their participation in religious activities.  

The Census also allows people to respond with secular or spiritual beliefs, and to indicate if they have no religious affiliation.  Answering this question in the Census is optional.  

This question has been included in the Census since Australia’s first Census in 1911 and is important for understanding how the religious affiliation of Australians has evolved over time.  

For this reason, it is important that the question is answered accurately and according to an individual’s own beliefs regarding their religion.  

People can answer the religion question with assurance that protecting their privacy and keeping information safe and secure is our highest priority.  

The ABS does not share personal Census information and never releases Census data in a way that could identify an individual. 

The ABS is grateful to the many groups, including cultural and religious organisations, that are encouraging participation in the Census and helping their communities to complete the form accurately.  

• Guidance on how to answer the Census questions and what the data is used for.  
• Support for people to complete their Census.  
• For media requests and interviews, contact ABS Media at media@abs.gov.au or call 1300 175 070.