It’s almost time again. The next Australian Census of Population and Housing will take place on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, and planning is already underway across the country.
For many strata, body corporate and owners corporation communities, Census time can involve a little extra preparation, particularly in buildings with controlled or restricted access. To support this planning, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has begun contacting strata, owners corporation or body corporate managers and building managers about Secure Apartment Buildings (SABs).
Every five years, the Census aims to count every person and household in Australia. Census data plays an important role in understanding population changes and helps inform planning for services and infrastructure at national, state and local levels.
To support this process, the ABS may request assistance from strata,owners corporation or body corporate and building managers to help plan access to Secure Apartment Buildings. This helps Census field staff follow up with residents who may not have completed their Census form.
The ABS also provides practical guidance for residents living in secure apartment buildings. More information about how secure apartment buildings are counted has been published by the ABS as part of previous Census planning and continues to guide current approaches.
To learn more about the ABS legislative framework, please visit their website.
For more information about the Census and how it is conducted, you can visit:
If you have questions about Secure Apartment Buildings or Census access planning, the ABS has provided a dedicated contact point:
Before renewing your agreement, take a moment to compare your options. Our quick and easy form can be completed in less than 30 seconds.
The Census is an important national activity that helps build an accurate picture of how Australians live, including in strata and apartment communities. For buildings with controlled access, early planning and clear communication can help the process run more smoothly for everyone involved.
By understanding what a Secure Apartment Building is, why the ABS is seeking support, and what information is and is not being requested, owners and committees can feel more confident about how their community may be involved. When information is shared carefully and at a building level only, it can help minimise disruption to residents while supporting accurate Census participation.
As Census night approaches, staying informed and aware of the process can help strata communities know what to expect and where to find reliable information. For questions or further guidance, the ABS remains the best point of contact, and additional resources are available to support residents in completing the Census where they live.
Download our FREE community living guides for practical strata insights.
Access helpful videos made for owners and committees.
Find out more about our services today.
Please use the form below to get a tailored strata management quote. For enquiries on strata reports, renovations, repairs and insurance-related issues, please use our forms and applications. For any general questions, head to our contact us page.
This article is edited by Lauren Shaw Regional General Manager and Licensee-in-Charge on May 2026.
