General
7 August, 2026
ABS reminds everyone to check their mailbox for Census instructions
As we get closer to Census night on Tuesday 11 August, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is reminding everyone to check their mailboxes for instructions on how to participate.
Most households will receive instructions to complete the Census online, with paper forms available on request for those who prefer them.
Emily Walter, Census national spokesperson, said: “Census instructions will start arriving in mailboxes over the coming weeks, so we’re asking households to check their mail.
“Once you receive your instructions, you can complete your Census straight away if you already know where you’ll be on Census night. You don’t need to wait until 11 August.”
Some households will receive a Census paper form in the mail or have one delivered by a Census field officer. These households will still be able to complete their Census online if they prefer.
In this year’s Census, the ABS expects around 85 per cent of forms to be completed online. It will take the average household around 30 minutes to complete the form.