9 August 2016

Privacy is paramount and protected in tonight’s Census

The 2016 Census will be protected by the strongest encryption technologies available, Minister for Small Business Michael McCormack says.

Government security agencies and external consultants have independently reviewed the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ online Census architecture, security and resilience.

“The ABS has assured the Government all possible measures have been taken to protect the integrity of data provided in this year’s Census,” Mr McCormack said.

“The collection of names and addresses in the Census has been a feature of all past Censuses, dating back to 1911, in order to ensure the quality and accuracy of important official statistics.”

In previous Censuses, names and addresses have been destroyed at the end of Census data processing, approximately 18 months after the Census. That limits the ABS’s ability to gain richer data about our nation.

“The decision by the ABS to retain data for four years will enable the production of a more dynamic and comprehensive statistical data set to better inform policy settings and provide tailored services for communities from which all Australians are set to benefit.

“After the data collection and processing is complete, the ABS will remove names and addresses from personal and household information and store them separately and made anonymous.

“It is important to note people’s names will never be “joined up” or attached to Census or any other data set.

“By law, not even the Prime Minister can access the data collected in the Census. No other Government agencies, law enforcement agencies, police, courts or tribunals are permitted access.

“The case for retaining names and addresses will be periodically reviewed and data will be destroyed before August 2020.”                   

Mr McCormack said Censuses are conducted in accordance with the Census and Statistics Act 1905 and personal information is handled in accordance with the Australian Privacy Principles. It is legally bound to never release personal information to any individual or organisation outside of the ABS.

“The ABS has an unblemished record in terms of the safe collection, storage and use of data from the Census,” Mr McCormack said.

“Key measures are in place to safeguard information including strong encryption of data, restrict access on a need-to-know basis and monitoring of all staff, including regular audits.

“The Census isn’t about any individual, it is us – the Australian people – as a collective.

“That’s why it’s important for all Australians to use their opportunity tonight to participate in the 2016 Census and shape the future of our country. From the picture Australians paint tonight, Governments of all levels and persuasions can plan for the future needs of hospitals, schools and other infrastructure.

“This is as well as taking an important snapshot of the kinds of life expectancy, health and population trends we see in all communities.

“So get online or use your paper form to help us all create the future Australia needs,” Mr McCormack said.