Using administrative data in the 2026 Census

We are using administrative data to improve how we run the Census and the quality of the information we collect.

Administrative data is information collected by government departments, businesses, and organisations during their regular operations. This data includes records like registrations, sales and other routine activities. Examples include things like rental and electricity usage data.

The ABS is using administrative data to enhance the efficiency and quality of the 2026 Census. It will enable us to:

• make the Census more efficient by reducing the number of visits to houses where no one is staying on Census night
• build a more complete picture of Australia by improving the way we count people who fail to fill in a Census form
• enrich Census data and create new insights.

This helps to improve and expand the statistics we provide to the Australian community and make the Census more efficient to conduct.

As well as these three new or improved uses, we will continue to use administrative data to:

•  update our register of addresses
• give us counts of people in hard-to-reach places like prisons and the Australian Antarctic base
• quality assure the Census during data processing.

The ABS will be transparent and clearly communicate the use of administrative data to support the Census, including how the data is used. 

When we use administrative data, it is for statistical and research purposes only, never in a way that could identify individuals. 

We don't collect, use or share administrative data to make people comply or to charge or fine people. For example, we don't use administrative data to follow up a person who hasn’t filled in their Census form.

Like other data we collect, administrative data is collected under Census and statistics laws. This means we are required by law to only use it for statistical reasons. We keep data secure and confidential.

We take data security very seriously. Protecting people’s privacy is our highest priority. We keep all personal information private and secure. We set high standards and have a strong reputation for maintaining the confidentiality of data.

We have thorough privacy policies and all data projects comply with the law, including the Census and Statistics Act 1905 and the Privacy Act 1988.

For the 2026 Census, we engaged an independent provider to conduct a three-phased Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA). The PIA process is a key part of ensuring privacy considerations remain central to ABS decisions when designing the Census and using Census data. 

More information on Privacy Impact Assessments and ABS responses is available on our website along with information about planning for the 2026 Census.