Australia’s 2026 census begins with for the first time optional questions asking residents about sexual orientation and whether their gender identity differs from the sex recorded at birth. The questions are included in the country’s five-yearly, 66-question census and can be answered by household members aged 16 and over. Respondents can also choose to skip the questions.
The outlets describe the decision as contentious and shaped by political change. Several reports say the questions were initially planned for the next census under Australia’s Labor Party but were later dropped, with the government citing social cohesion and “divisive” concerns. After criticism and public pressure, Labor reverses its position and confirms inclusion ahead of census day.
Different outlets emphasize different aspects. Some focus on what people can report, including multiple sexual orientation response categories and gender identity options such as man, woman, and nonbinary, along with “prefer not to answer” options. Others highlight the broader policy context, including statements from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and concerns around privacy, trust, and why collecting the data may be important for services and planning.
