Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories helping mob to get involved in 2021 Census Haidee Allan is a proud Kamilaroi woman from Tamworth NSW working at the ABS, and part of the team delivering the 2021 Census campaign. “Our campaign shares stories of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and organisations that have used the Census to help plan for our future generations,” Haidee said. “From a remote bus service in Queensland to better university pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, the campaign is helping us to share powerful stories about how Census data is used to create better outcomes in community.”
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) launched the 2021 Census campaign, with national advertising to start on Sunday 4 July. The 2021 Census campaign will include materials and resources to encourage all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to complete the Census this August. Radio advertising will be translated into 19 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages. “From a remote bus service in Queensland to better university pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth, the campaign is helping us to share powerful stories about how Census data is used to create better outcomes in community.” This year, the ABS is encouraging people to start their Census as soon as they receive instructions if they know where they’ll be on Tuesday 10 August. In remote areas, the Census is conducted between July and August. This allows time for remote teams to cover large areas and visit every household to help people complete.
“Our network of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff across Australia will be working closely within their own communities. We recognise their understanding of the language is important for helping our mob to be included in the Census,” Haidee said. There are many resources available to help people participate. They are available at www.census.abs.gov.au/indigenous The materials and resources feature the artwork ‘Our Story. Our Future.’ which was created by proud Wiradjuri, Wotjobaluk, Yuin and Gumbaynggirr artist Luke Penrith and Badu Island artist from the Torres Strait Naseli Tamwoy. The artwork tells the story of how the ABS works with communities to see, hear and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and experiences in our national story. “Our voices are stronger and louder together. Encouraging our mob to be counted in the Census ensures we’re heard. “I encourage everyone to participate in the 2021 Census and help tell our story,” Haidee said.