[ABS] 2026 Census deadline 11.8.2026 Otherwise, $364 penalty for each day

Every five years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics counts every person and household in Australia. This is called the Census of Population and Housing. 

Census night is Tuesday 11 August 2026. You can complete your Census form as soon as you receive your instructions, if you know where you’ll be on Census night. ​

If you haven’t received your instructions, find out more about completing the Census.

The Census form asks questions about your age, country of birth, cultural background, living situation, work and education. 

In the Census, every answer matters to help Australia understand what Australia needs now and into the future. 

Census data is used to inform decisions about transport, schools, health care, infrastructure and business. It also helps plan local services for individuals, families and communities. 

The Census is compulsory under the Census and Statistics Act 1905. Everyone in Australia on Census night must be included on a Census form. 

Penalty for not completing it

Under Australian law, if you fail to complete the Census after being formally directed to do so, the penalty can be up to $364 for each day that you remain non-compliant.

Also:

• Providing false information: can attract a penalty of up to $3,640.

• The $364/day penalty does not normally mean you are automatically fined immediately at midnight tonight. The ABS generally follows up with people who have not completed their Census before enforcement action.

• If you simply haven't completed it yet, you should complete it as soon as possible, rather than waiting for a follow-up.

Reference：https://info.census.abs.gov.au/about

Disclaimer: This article is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute professional advice for specific circumstances.  It should not be relied upon as a substitute for tailored advice.