Community urged to complete their census
MEDIA RELEASE - Community urged to complete their census
August 2016
Community members are being urged to complete their census form, either online or in the paper format, before the due date of 23 September 2016.The Australian Census, which first started in 1911, is the source of valuable information that assists the Australian Bureau of Statistics to provide a snapshot in time on the status and characteristics of the population of Australia.
Shire President Wade DeCampo explained how the data that is gathered during the census plays a crucial role in securing much-needed funding to provide better services and facilities for the community. "Every grant or funding application that is prepared by the Shire or community groups, requires data on the population of our region. Without the honest answers provided by our community members during census, we don't have access to that data."
"Without population statistics, which are also used for forward projections of population growth, our region wouldn't have been as fortunate as we have been in recent years with regards to funding support from both Federal and State Government," said Cr DeCampo. "These statistics will be what we use to compare we were years ago versus where we end up, population wise, in the future."
Population statistics are also utilised by Federal and State Government agencies to assign services such as health, education, housing, transport, environment and road infrastructure. The statistics also determine the designation of human and physical resources to deliver these services; all of which are very important to local communities.
"By completing the census, you're playing a role in shaping the future of our communities; it is so important for the future of the Shire of Manjimup to have accurate and accessible data, and the only way that is possible is if everybody participates in Census," explained Cr DeCampo. By completing the Census before the deadline, people will also avoid the penalties of $180 per day which will be infringed to those who do not submit a Census by the deadline.
You can complete your census online via www.abs.gov.au or you can complete your form and return it using the reply paid envelope supplied to your household with the form. There is also valuable information available online as to how to order extra forms or an additional login to complete your form online. Alternatively, please call Census on 1300 214 531.
"I would also encourage you to talk to as many people who currently reside in the district to stress the importance of completing the Census before the deadline," said Cr DeCampo.
-ENDS-
Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer
Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Coordinator Communication and Executive Support
Contact: 9771 7777
Contact for comment: Wade DeCampo, Shire President.
Contact: 0427 094 081
