Census night
Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics counts every person and household in Australia. This is called the Census of Population and Housing.
The Census asks questions about your age, country of birth, cultural background, work and education. Your answers are private and protected by law.
Census data is used to help understand how Australia is changing, and what services are needed now and in the future.
Everyone in Australia on Tuesday 11 August 2026 must be counted in the Census, including:
- Visa holders
- International visitors
- International students
The Census is compulsory – and every answer matters.
For households that haven’t competed their Census yet, do it now.
The Census is compulsory, and every person in Australia on Census night must be counted. This includes international students, visitors, visa holders and babies.
If a household doesn’t received a Census letter by post, needs help completing their form, or would prefer a paper form or online, call 1800 181 227.
Every response is important to ensure communities are accurately represented and services can be planned where they’re needed most.
How to complete the Census
The form is in English, but help is available. You can:
- ask a family member or friend to help you
- call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 for help in your language.
Resources to share with your community
Information is available in 26 languages to help your community get Census ready.
If you cannot find information in your preferred language, contact the Australian Bureau of Statistics at census.abs.gov.au/contact-us.
2026 Census Stakeholder Kit – Multicultural communities
