There's a Census job for you

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is hiring thousands of Field Officers and Community Field Officers in locations all over Australia.

If you’re a retiree with relevant professional experience, volunteer experience, or local relationships, these jobs are the perfect opportunity to earn extra money and support your community.

You’ll work flexible hours in your local area to support everyone to participate in the Census. This can include answering questions from the public and helping people in person to complete their form.

Census data helps governments, not-for-profits and businesses to make important decisions that directly impact your community. It is used to help plan local services like schools, health centres, transport, and infrastructure.

Emily Walter, Census National Spokesperson, said Field Officers and Community Field Officers will be hired locally, where possible, to provide local knowledge and support.

“We’re looking for people from a range of backgrounds and ages who know and care about their community,” Ms Walter said.

“These temporary jobs are a great opportunity for retirees and seniors to use their skills and experience to help collect high-quality data for Australian communities.

“You can fit the work into your schedule, with working hours across a mix of weekdays, weekends, and evenings.

“It’s an excellent way to earn extra money while getting out and about and supporting the Census.”

More than 16,000 Field Officer jobs are now available

Applications for Field Officer jobs are now open in our major cities and regional areas across the country.

As a Field Officer, you’ll be the local face of the Census. You’ll work in your community delivering Census letters and forms, answering questions, and following up with those who have not yet responded.

“No prior experience is required to become a Field Officer, and we will provide paid training before you commence work,” Ms Walter said.

“We encourage people to submit their applications early to be considered in their local area.”

Community Field Officer jobs will be opening soon

Do you have experience working in social or community services? Applications for Community Field Officer jobs are opening on 11 May.

As a Community Field Officer, you’ll be in your community supporting people face-to-face to complete their Census form. This can include running Census pop-up hubs and information sessions.

Ms Walter said the ABS is looking for people with lived experience and/or experience supporting people living with disability, people experiencing homelessness, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and people who speak a language other than English.

“Whether you’ve retired from community services or are starting to wind down your hours, we’re looking for your experience and connections,” Ms Walter said.

“Our Community Field Officers make sure people from all cultures and communities are counted in the Census.”

“They play a crucial role in ensuring everyone feels safe and respected when participating.”

Applications are fast and easy. All applications are done online, with assistance available if needed from the Recruitment Support Line on 1300 100 557.

Stay connected and involved with your local community this Census. To find more information and apply, visit census.abs.gov.au/jobs.

How does the Census help support your community?

The next Census is on Tuesday 11 August 2026.

Every person and household in Australia is counted through the Census. It gives us a snapshot of who we are and tells the story of how we are changing.

Having the right numbers helps governments, not-for-profits and businesses make informed decisions about local services in your community.

Here are just five ways Census data makes a difference:

1. Census data is used to better understand issues facing older Australians, including planning for the pension, rent allowance, aged care, and hospital services.
2. Census data is used to understand housing needs and priorities to plan affordable and culturally appropriate community housing.
3. Libraries use Census data to understand languages spoken in local communities so they can provide in-language books for their readers.
4. Homelessness service providers use Census data to understand where their services are needed. 
5. The Royal Flying Doctor Service uses Census data to understand the number of people living in remote areas. This tells them where their doctors are needed most.