A step toward the future – supporting the 2021 Census with integrated administrative data

As the results of the 2021 Australian Census are being released, join us and hear from Dr Louise Wangerek about some of the technical challenges faced in creating high-quality Census data. Those attending in person will have an opportunity to chat over dinner after the event concludes.

Abstract

The Census is a snapshot of Australia and tells the story of how we are changing. The Census helps us understand what we need now, and into the future. Community groups, not-for-profit organisations, businesses and governments use Census data to make important decisions. Census data informs planning for schools, health care, transport and infrastructure. It is also used to help plan local services for individuals, families and communities.

Ensuring that Census data is high-quality and provides an accurate representation of all Australians is of the utmost importance. The 2016 Census Independent Assurance Panel's Report on the Quality of 2016 Census data noted an increase in over-imputation and that older persons were more likely to be imputed. Subsequent research found this increased imputation was due to incorrectly setting too many non-responding dwellings to occupied, and that the donors selected to represent these households tended to over-represent households with older persons.

This seminar will detail how ABS used integrated administrative data to improve 2021 Census data quality. The most important use was improving Census counts by addressing over-imputation. We also used integrated administrative data to prepare for unexpected events that might lower the Census response rate and as an independent confrontation source during quality assurance of Census data. The presentation will conclude with some possibilities on how we can expand our use of administrative data for future Censuses.

Speaker - Dr Louise Wangerek

Louise Wangerek is an Assistant Director in Census Futures. She has been an integral part of the team improving 2021 Census data quality through the use of administrative data. Prior to joining the Australian Public Service in 2006, she completed a PhD in gene therapy.