Published on Wednesday, 22 July 2026 at 3:00:00 PM
The 2026 Census will take place on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.
Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) conducts the Census to build a snapshot of Australia's people and housing. The information collected helps governments, businesses and community organisations better understand our communities and plan for the future.
For York, it's important that everyone who lives here is counted. An accurate Census helps build a clearer picture of our community and supports planning for York's future.
Over the coming weeks, the Shire of York will continue updating this page with important information, reminders and support available before Census Day.
Haven't Received Your Census Letter? Here's What to Do
Don't worry, you don't need to wait. Watch the short video below to see how easy it is to request a Census number online and have it sent straight to your mobile via SMS.
🌐 Start here: https://form.census.abs.gov.au/
Need a hand?
The York Community Resource Centre (CRC) is happy to help, and free access to the CRC's public computers is available for anyone completing their Census.
If you would prefer to complete a paper Census form, you can contact the Census Contact Centre on 1800 181 227 for assistance.
You can also visit the ABS Census Pop-up Hub at Northam Boulevard Shopping Centre from 10.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Wednesday, for in-person assistance.
Why the Census Matters
The Census helps inform decisions about services and infrastructure across Australia. Information collected through the Census is used to help plan roads, transport, health services, schools, community facilities, housing and other community services.
Census Day
Tuesday, 11 August 2026
Most households will receive a letter from the Australian Bureau of Statistics with instructions on how to complete the Census. If you already know where you'll be on Census night, you can complete your Census as soon as you receive your instructions.
CEO Video
2026 Census: Why Every Person Counts in York | CEO Alina Behan
How to Complete the Census
Most households will receive instructions in the mail from late July.
You can complete the Census:
• Online
• By paper form
• With assistance from the Australian Bureau of Statistics where available.
Frequently Asked Questions
For answers to common questions including privacy, travelling on Census night, what questions are asked and how to complete your Census, click the FAQs here
Need Help?
Support is available if you need assistance completing your Census.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics offers a range of support services, including:
· Official Census website: https://www.census.abs.gov.au
· Contact the Census team: 1800 181 227
· Language assistance (TIS National): 131 450
· Request a paper form: https://www.census.abs.gov.au/help
· Accessibility resources: https://www.census.abs.gov.au/accessibility
· Find a Pop-up Hub or in-person support: https://www.census.abs.gov.au/find-us
The Shire of York is also working with the York Community Resource Centre (CRC) to provide local support for residents who need assistance completing their Census. Details of the support available, including locations and times, will be published here once they have been confirmed.
Helpful Resources
Latest Updates
This page will be updated throughout the Census campaign
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