More than five million household Census forms had been lodged by Tuesday morning as Australians prepared to be counted on Census night, with the Australian Bureau of Statistics reminding people they can still participate even if their instructions have not arrived.
Tuesday, 11 August, is Census night, the once-every-five-years count used to capture a snapshot of Australia’s population and how the country is changing.
The ABS said it had received more than five million household forms, both online and on paper, by 10am on Tuesday.
Most households have now received either instructions for completing the 2026 Census online or a paper form, while ABS staff continue working in communities across the country to reach people who have not yet participated.
People who have not received an instruction letter or paper form can obtain a Census number through the Census website and complete the form online.
There is also no requirement for people who have not completed their form by Tuesday night to abandon the process. The ABS said forms can still be completed after Census night.
Households wanting to use a paper form can request one online or contact the Census Contact Centre on 1800 181 227.
The bureau is also providing assistance by phone and through pop-up hubs around Australia for people who need help completing the Census.
The Census is conducted every five years and provides the ABS with information about Australia’s population, households and communities. The data is used to help governments and other organisations understand changes in the country and plan services.
The ABS is urging people who have not yet participated to complete their form, saying every response contributes to the picture of Australia captured by the 2026 Census.
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