STATEMENT BY THE GOVERNOR-GENERAL - VISIT TO THE CENSUS TEAM AT ABS

3 August 2006

Earlier today Marlena and I visited Census staff and other members of the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) in Canberra.

We were briefed on the massive logistical task associated with the forthcoming 2006 Population Census.

The first truly national Census was taken in 1911 and the Census to be held next Tuesday, 8 August, is the 15th Census since then. ABS Staff can be truly proud of the Census and their contribution in compiling the data so essential to plan for the future.

The Census is full of information that brings a person, or a people, to life. The Census not only helps plan our future, it gives us an insight into our past - into who we are as Australians. Without it we would lose part of our national memory - of what it was and is to be Australian.

Marlena and I thank also, the 30,000 temporary staff the ABS has employed to help with the Census. They are the collectors and supervisors who will deliver Census forms to every dwelling in the nation.

Without them the Census just could not take place. With their bright yellow bags they will become a familiar sight all around the nation. After they have done their job, staff at the ABS Data Processing Centre in Melbourne will retrieve the data from the forms for appropriate analysis.

Well done to everyone involved. You are doing a great job for your country.



Contact: Stephen Jiggins
02 62833519 or 0408 480 779
Government House
Canberra
3 August 2006