Penalty provisions

Penalty units determine the maximum fines which can be imposed for offences in Commonwealth legislation and territory ordinances. The value of a penalty unit is prescribed by the Crimes Act 1914.

For offences committed on or after 7 November 2024, the value of the Commonwealth penalty unit is $330. 

Historical penalty unit values are provided in Table 1.

All Australian Bureau of Statistics surveys are conducted under the authority of the Census and Statistics Act 1905 (C&S Act). 

Under the provisions of the C&S Act the Australian Statistician has the power to direct you in writing to provide information. Failure to comply with a direction in writing is an offence under the C&S Act and can result in prosecution and fines of up to $330 (1 penalty unit) for each day you don't comply.

Providing false or misleading statements or information is also an offence and can result in a fine of up to $3,300 (10 penalty units). 

All employees sign an Undertaking of Fidelity and Secrecy upon commencement of employment at the ABS. 

The Undertaking of Fidelity and Secrecy requires that ABS employees do not disclose information acquired during their employment. This Undertaking continues to apply even after ceasing employment with the ABS. It is an offence for ABS employees to breach this Undertaking, and significant penalties apply for any breach, including up to 2 years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $39,600.