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On August 9, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) will conduct the 2016 Census of Population and Housing.
The Census takes a snapshot of the nation’s people and housing.  This information will help shape the future of Australia’s education, health, transport and infrastructure, so it’s important that you have your say.
The online Census is now easier to complete than ever.
What you need to know
1. The census is a compulsory survey involving residents of all dwellings on census night
Yes. Everyone in Australia must complete the Census. It’s the law. Everyone who is in Australia on Census night needs to participate in the Census, no matter where you are. Whether you are an international visitor, travelling to remote areas, simply travelling interstate or staying away from home due to a natural disaster or other reason, arrangements have been made for you to complete the Census.
2. The information you give in the census is used to plan housing, transport, education and hospitals
3. This year the census goes online for the first time
From August 1 you’ll get a letter in the mail with your census login number and instruction on how to complete the census online.
4. You can also complete the census on paper instead of online
In some locations, households will receive a paper form upfront with the option to complete the Census online. If you’re able to access the internet, just follow in the simple instructions on the front of the form to complete it online. If you dont want to do it online, You’ll need to order a paper form by calling 1300 214 531. Paper forms must be completed and returned in the Reply Paid envelope without delay – don’t wait for a Census Field Officer to collect it.
5. You can request a translator to help you complete the census
TIS National is partnering with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) to provide interpreting services to culturally and linguistically diverse Australians and assist them to understand how to complete the Census.
6. You must answer every question on the census form except the one about religion
The question about religion isn’t compulsory; if you do answer, you can choose from a list of common religions, specify your own, or answer ‘No religion’.
7. If you don’t complete the census you can get fined up to $180 per day until you complete it
8. If you live in a regional area you may receive a visit from a Census Field Officer who will help you to complete the census
 
9. The name and address you provide in the census will not be shared with any other government departments
There is a detailed privacy policy available on the ABS website.
10. If you are overseas on census night, you do not have to complete the census
If you are overseas on Census night, you do not need to complete the Census.
For more information, go to the Census website.