Over 30,000 workers needed for 2026 Australian census roles

With just one year remaining until Australia’s next national Census, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has announced plans to hire more than 30,000 temporary workers across the country to fill “critically important” roles for the 2026 count. The Census, conducted every five years, is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive data-gathering operation. It records every person and dwelling in Australia, producing an unparalleled snapshot of the population and its characteristics. The information gathered shapes public policy, informs government services, and supports community planning

With just one year remaining until Australia’s next national Census, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has announced plans to hire more than 30,000 temporary workers across the country to fill “critically important” roles for the 2026 count. The Census, conducted every five years, is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive data-gathering operation. It records every person and dwelling in Australia, producing an unparalleled snapshot of the population and its characteristics. The information gathered shapes public policy, informs government services, and supports community planning at every level. Recruitment has begun with the first positions to be filled — Census Engagement Managers. In the coming months, the ABS will roll out a broader range of roles, including Field Officers and Field Managers, each designed to support the nationwide effort to reach every household. Census Engagement Managers will be tasked with leading outreach initiatives, particularly in areas where participation may be challenging. This includes building strong local relationships, supporting people within their communities to complete the Census, and ensuring coverage in both metropolitan and remote regions. Significantly, the workforce will engage with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, ensuring culturally sensitive and inclusive participation. Other roles, such as Field Officers and Field Managers, will focus on the operational side of the Census. Duties may include delivering Census instructions and forms, responding to public inquiries, and assisting households that have not yet lodged their responses. Field Managers, in particular, will oversee small teams working on the ground, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and accurately. ABS General Manager for the Census, Jenny Telford, emphasised the importance of a workforce that reflects the communities it serves. “By being a part of the Census team, people have an opportunity to ensure their community is accurately reflected in the 2026 data,” she said. “We’re seeking people who reflect the diversity of their communities, including those who speak multiple languages or have strong local connections.” The ABS is actively encouraging applicants from a wide range of backgrounds. Workers with ability to speak languages other than English, experience with diverse communities, and familiarity with local needs are highly valued. For many positions, including Field Officer roles, no previous experience is required. The ABS will provide full training, and workers will be supervised and supported throughout their employment. Other positions, such as Field Manager roles, may require prior experience in supervising small teams, while customer service skills will be an asset for Field Officer positions. The ABS has also indicated a preference for applicants with experience working with diverse or hard-to-reach communities. The 2026 Census will be a major logistical undertaking, mobilising tens of thousands of people in every state and territory to ensure that every household and every individual is counted. From city centres to the most remote corners of the country, this workforce will form the backbone of an operation that underpins decision-making across government, business, and community sectors for years to come. Applications for Census Engagement Manager roles are now open on ABS website, with further recruitment rounds for Field Officers and Field Managers expected in the coming months.