2026 Australian Census: the key dates, rules and questions answered
When is Census night, who has to take part and can you be fined? Here’s what Australians need to know about the 2026 Census.
The Australian Census, conducted every five years by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), is set to take place on Tuesday August 11, 2026. This snapshot of Australia's population and households is used to plan services and infrastructure. The Census is compulsory under the Census and Statistics Act 1905, but being late does not automatically result in a fine.
The ABS first contacts non-respondents, and further action, including fines, may follow if they still do not comply. Everyone who is in Australia on Census night should be counted, including babies, children, international students, visitors, and visa holders. One person typically completes the household form for everyone staying at that address on Census night.
If you don't have a fixed address, you can still be included in the Census, either on the household form of someone you're staying with or on your own form if you have no usual address. The Census can be completed online, by paper form, or privately to ensure answers are kept confidential. Once submitted, the form cannot be edited, but the ABS offers support for any issues or changes.
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