Making the most of Census 2026

The national Census will be taking place on Tuesday, 11 August 2026 and is a valuable source of data to support Local Government in funding applications, infrastructure planning, and service delivery. A complete and accurate count strengthens your ability to advocate for investment in health, transport, housing, recreation, and economic development at State and Federal levels.

WALGA will be working with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in early 2026 to highlight actions to get the best outcomes from the Census for your communities.

Why Local Government involvement in Census 2026 matters

• Census data directly informs funding allocations, infrastructure planning, and service delivery for every Local Government - accurate local participation ensures your community receives its fair share of resources.
• Local Governments are trusted local voices; your support significantly increases community awareness, participation, and confidence, particularly among older residents, young people, and hard-to-reach groups.
• A complete and accurate count strengthens your ability to advocate for investment in health, transport, housing, recreation, and economic development at State and Federal levels.
• Partnering with ABS amplifies consistent, accessible messages across your community channels - ensuring residents know when, how, and why to participate.
• Census 2026 provides actionable insights for long-term planning, emergency management, workforce development, and local business support.

Keep an eye for more information in the new year. ABS has put together a brief information sheet on how the Local Government sector can support community awareness and participation. 

Read the Information Sheet.