Everyone in Australia on Census night must complete the 2026 Census on or before Tuesday, 11 August.
What is the Census, and why does it matter?
The Census is a snapshot of everyone living in Australia, taken every five years by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). On Census night, every person and household is counted, along with basic information about age, housing, health, work and family. It’s the most comprehensive picture we have of the country’s population, and it directly shapes decisions about funding and services in communities across Australia.
You can complete your form any time on or before Census night, so there’s no need to wait until the last minute. If it isn’t done by 14 August, you may be fined, so it’s worth getting it out of the way early if you can.
Census data helps determine aged care funding, health services and housing policy, so accurate participation matters for older Australians as a group.
If you live in retirement living, an Over 50s lifestyle resort or residential aged care
Retirement villages, residential parks and land lease communities will receive visits from ABS field staff, who drop off forms directly. Support is available if you need help completing it.
Aged care homes appoint a staff member or volunteer to coordinate things onsite, distributing forms, helping residents complete them if needed, and collecting them afterwards. Field staff from the ABS also visit to support the process. You don’t need to organise anything yourself, your facility will guide you through it.
Information kept private?
Your Census information is confidential and protected by law. It’s never shared with other government departments or marketing companies in a way that could identify you, and it’s never used for compliance or enforcement. Your name is kept on record for up to 18 months and your address for up to three years, then destroyed.
How to complete the 2026 Census form
However you live, you can complete the Census online or on paper, and there’s no need to do it alone. Family, friends, carers or ABS staff can help you fill it in. Accessible formats are also available, including large print, braille and Auslan support, for anyone who needs them.
If you have questions or need help at any point, the ABS Census help centre has information for every situation.