You may remember the Census website crash of 2016, caused by overwhelming demand on the night and perhaps malicious hackers, with #censusfail trending on Twitter.
Certainly, the Australian Bureau of Statistics remembers, now allowing Australians to complete the 2021 Census as soon as they receive instructions in the mail, instead of waiting until 10 August.
Over 10 million Australian households will receive their instructions ahead of time, explaining how to complete online or how to order a paper form. Some households will receive a paper form off the bat, as well as a handy reply-paid envelope for return.
Andrew Henderson, Census executive director and national spokesperson, urged Australians to “please check your letterbox”.
“You don’t have to wait and complete on a single night. We know this flexibility will make it more convenient for people to complete,” Mr Henderson said.
“People will be able to complete the Census online, on their mobile device or on paper. We are also making it as easy as possible for everyone to participate in the Census with a range of support and assistance available.”
Census staff are also working in remote communities to help people complete the Census during July and August.
ABS expects around 75% of forms to be completed online this year, compared to 63% in 2016. It will take the average household about 30 minutes to complete the Census.
The 2021 Census campaign message is that ‘Every stat tells a story’, highlighting how Census data is used to guide services provided to individuals, families and communities.
Also of note, two new questions will appear on the 2021 Census – which marks the first time the questions have been changed since 2006.
The new questions pertain to long-term health conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes, and on defence force participation.
For more information, visit www.census.abs.gov.au.
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