2016 Census - ANU experts weigh into debate<»
On Tuesday 9 August Australians will complete their forms for the 2016 Census of Population and Housing. Concerns have been raised as The Australian Bureau of Statistics will for the first time retain names and addresses. A number of ANU experts have given their opinion relating to the controvery surrounding the 2016 Census. Dr Liz Allen - Demographer - Centre for Aboriginal Economic Policy Research "Privacy fears over data linkage and longer retention of names and addresses as part of Census 2016 are understandable, but are misinformed and exaggerated. Census is a fundamental part of modern government, and is the only way to assess social wellbeing and understand the composition and geographic location of the Australian population." Dr Jill Sheppard - Australian Centre for Applied Social Research Methods - ANU College of Arts and Social Sciences "People have expressed two broad, understandable concerns about this year's Census: the security of the information, and the potential for government overreach. While researchers like me who have a vested interest in the reliability of Census data will plead with people to set aside their concerns, there is more at stake than just our research interests. "Comprehensive and reliable Census data are vital for the provision of public services such as education, health funding, and policies to redress entrenched inequalities." Emeritus Professor John Warhurst - School of Politics & International Relations - Research School of Social Sciences - ANU College of Arts & Social Sciences "All census results have a political impact.
