The Minister for Financial Services & Regulation, Joe Hockey, today officially launched the 2001 Census in Darwin.
As part of the launch the Minister also farewelled the Australian Statistician, Dennis Trewin, as he delivered the first Census form, one of over 9 million, to one of the country's most isolated communities - the employees of the Paspaley Pearl Farm at Port Bremer, one hour by seaplane north east of Darwin.
"I encourage every Australian, no matter where they are spending the night on August 7, to complete their Census form and help shape Australia's future," the Minister said.
"A successful Census is vital to the nation's planning for the future. By filling in the Census form, everyone has the opportunity of contributing to our democracy."
This Census has three new questions: two questions on information technology which will provide invaluable data to the Government and private organisations, particularly in regional and rural areas.
The third new question embraces a special Centenary of Federation feature, the Time Capsule Project, where Australians agree to have their name-identified information placed in a time capsule at the Australian National Archive for 99 years.
"Every Australian has a chance to be a part of history and to agree to have their Census forms retained for 99 years. This is a gift from the people of this Century to the people of the next century."
For more information on the Census go to www.abs.gov.au/census.