In a visit to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) earlier today, Chris Pearce attended a briefing with the Governor-General of Australia about the forthcoming 2006 Census.
The Census of Population and Housing takes a ‘snapshot’ of Australia every five years - collecting vital information on the characteristics of Australian society. It provides many benefits to all Australians and the communities they live in, and is extensively used in planning by all levels of government and other organisations.
While making a tour of Census operations with the Australian Statistician Mr Dennis Trewin, the Governor-General thanked Census staff for their professional work and expressed his hope that all Australians take time to carefully fill out the Census on Census night because of its significant national importance.
“A number of initiatives have been realised to make this Census easier to complete and more accessible to all. One example is the eCensus - we hope that more than 10 per cent of Australians will complete their Census via the Internet,” said Mr Pearce.
“Throughout its history the Australian Bureau of Statistics has been quick to adapt to technical innovation. One indicator of that is the speed with which the ABS has introduced an Internet-based option for completing the Census.
“Another initiative is the Census Time Capsule, enabling all Australians who choose to take part to make history in 99 years’ time.
“The Census Time Capsule gives Australians the chance to have their name-identified information retained securely by the National Archives of Australia until its release in 2105.
“This information will be an important resource for future generations, providing them with a comprehensive picture of the Australian people and society in 2006,” said Mr Pearce.
CANBERRA
3 August 2006
Media contact: Gillian Harvey 03 9887 3890 or 0411 567 060