The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has reaffirmed that personal information collected during the 2026 Census, including names and addresses, is strictly confidential and protected by law. This data cannot be shared with any government agency, police, or migration agents under any circumstances.
Legal protections and data handling
Jenny Telford, general manager of the Census and Population division at the ABS, emphasised that safeguarding respondent data is "absolutely critical." She told SBS News that the ABS has extensive legal protections to ensure no individual or household can be identified from released information.
"When you complete that Census form, your name and address are kind of separated away from all of the other answers on the form really early in our process," Telford said. She added that the ABS commits to destroying names and addresses once the Census is processed and statistics are produced.
Who can access Census information?
Since 1911, names and addresses have been collected as part of the national Census of Population and Housing. The ABS states this information improves data linkage accuracy and statistical quality. Addresses are used to produce accurate population estimates, ensure no household is missed, and provide insights into internal migration.
In 2021, 96.1 per cent of households completed the Census, according to the ABS.
Retention and destruction timelines
Names from the 2026 Census will be retained for up to 18 months, until the end of February 2028. Addresses will be kept for a maximum of 36 months, until the end of August 2029. After processing, no staff can view personal identifiers alongside survey results.
Respondents may opt to have their information preserved for 99 years in the Census Time Capsule, securely transferred to the National Archives of Australia. This decision is irreversible, and access is restricted until 2125.
Penalties for misuse
All ABS staff, including temporary employees, are legally bound to never release Census information. Violations can result in fines up to $26,400 and imprisonment for up to two years, under the 1905 Census and Statistics Act.
