The 2026 Census Is Coming | Important information
What Is the Census?
The Census of Population and Housing is the largest and most important data collection in Australia. Held every five years, it counts every person and household across the country on a single night. The next Census will take place in August 2026.
The Census asks questions about your age, country of birth, cultural background, living situation, work, and education. This information is used to estimate Australia’s population, distribute government funding, and plan services for individuals, families, and communities — now and into the future.
In short, the Census shapes the services available to your community. If you are not counted, your community is not planned for.
Why the Census Matters for Multicultural Communities
Census data has a direct and tangible impact on the lives of people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. Here are just a few examples of how it is used:
- Libraries use Census data to understand what languages are spoken in local communities, so they can stock books and resources in those languages.
- Supermarkets use Census data to decide which products to stock for their customers, including international foods.
- Broadcasters use Census data to determine which in-language radio and media services are needed for their audiences.
- Governments use Census data to plan hospitals, schools, transport, and housing — especially in areas with large migrant and refugee populations.
When CALD communities are accurately counted, the result is better-funded, better-targeted services for everyone.
Language Support: Help Is Available
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) recognises that language should never be a barrier to participating in the Census. Closer to August 2026, a range of support resources will be available in multiple languages, including:
- Translated information flyers
- Audio resources
- Video guides
- In-person help through Census Pop-up Hubs and Fill-in Form sessions
- Phone support via the Census Contact Centre and the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National)
These resources are designed to help people from diverse backgrounds fully understand and complete the Census form. Visit info.census.abs.gov.au/language-support for updates as they become available.
Community Field Officers: Jobs Available Now
The ABS is currently seeking Community Field Officers (CFOs) to help ensure that every voice is heard, respected, and counted in the 2026 Census.
This is a paid casual role at $34.11 per hour (including 25% casual loading), plus superannuation, with flexible hours and roles available across Australia.
CFOs are particularly needed to support communities that have historically been undercounted — including people from CALD backgrounds. There are four work streams:
- Generalist (including support for people living with disability)
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Communities
- Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Peoples and Communities
- Homelessness
What the role involves:
- Providing face-to-face support to help people complete the Census
- Running Pop-up Hubs and information or Fill-in Form sessions
- Assisting people who may need additional support
- Working weekdays, evenings, and some weekends
Who should apply?
People with experience working with CALD communities, disability services, youth programs, aged care, community services, or local councils are encouraged to apply. Bilingual skills are highly valued.
This is a meaningful opportunity to contribute to your community and ensure that people like you are properly represented in Australia’s most important national data collection.
Submit an Expression of Interest here
For more information, call the Recruitment Support Line on 1300 100 557.
Get Involved — Spread the Word
ECCNSW encourages all member organisations and community groups to share this information with their networks. The more people who participate in the Census, the more accurately our communities will be represented — and the better the services and funding that will follow.
Download the multicultural information kit here
If you have questions about the Census visit info.census.abs.gov.au
Sources: Australian Bureau of Statistics Census 2026 — Language Support | Community Field Officer recruitment
