Australia to Include LGBTIQ+ Questions in 2026 Census, Reversing Earlier Decision

In a significant policy shift, the Australian government has announced the inclusion of questions regarding sexual orientation and gender in the upcoming 2026 census. This decision, revealed on September 8, 2024, reverses the government's earlier stance from August 2024, which had excluded such inquiries.

Jim Chalmers, the Australian Treasurer, stated that the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) would be responsible for formulating the specific questions. He emphasized the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of the LGBTIQ+ community, stating, "We say to Australians from the LGBTIQ+ community: you matter, you've been heard, you will be counted."

It's important to note that these new questions will be optional and limited to respondents over 16 years of age. This approach aligns with international trends, as the United Kingdom introduced a similar optional question on sexual orientation in its 2021 census.

The decision to include these questions comes after a period of controversy lasting more than a week. Initially, the government had decided against including LGBTIQ+ identity questions, with Richard Marles, the Deputy Prime Minister, expressing concerns about potentially divisive debates. However, the reversal suggests a reconsideration of this stance in response to community feedback.

This change in the census reflects a broader trend of evolving data collection practices. The Australian Census, conducted every five years since 1911, has consistently adapted to capture a more comprehensive picture of the nation's demographics. For instance, the 2021 census introduced new questions on long-term health conditions and service with the Australian Defence Force.

The inclusion of LGBTIQ+ questions in the 2026 census is expected to provide valuable insights into Australia's diverse population. Census data plays a crucial role in various aspects of governance and planning, including the distribution of government funds and the development of community services.

"We have listened to the LGBTIQ+ community to make sure that we can work with the ABS to deliver this really important change when it comes to the 2026 census."

It's worth noting that while participation in the Australian Census is compulsory, the ABS ensures that personal information remains confidential and is not shared. The 2021 census recorded Australia's population at 25,422,788, and the upcoming 2026 census, with its new inclusive questions, is likely to provide an even more detailed demographic snapshot.

As Australia prepares for this significant change in its census, the decision underscores the government's commitment to better representing all segments of its population. This move not only aligns with international practices but also reflects the ongoing evolution of Australia's approach to data collection and social inclusivity.