Commissioner welcomes Government’s decision to include LGBTQIA+ Australians in next Census
Commissioner supports Federal Government decision to commit to including LGBTQIA+ Australians in the 2026 Census.
Summary
- Commissioner Cody welcomed the Federal Government’s reversal and commitment to include LGBTQIA+ questions in the 2026 Census.
- She said inclusive data is essential for fair services and addressing health disparities.
- She praised the Government for listening to community concerns and expert advice.
Sex Discrimination Commissioner Anna Cody has welcomed the Federal Government's decision to commit to including LGBTQIA+ Australians in the 2026 Census.
Earlier this week, the Government had announced it would omit LGBTIQA+-related questions and topics in the next Census, contrary to a commitment in Federal Labor's national platform.
Commissioner Anna Cody said: 'I welcome the constructive response by the Prime Minister and Federal Government to change the decision and commit to including LGBTQIA+ Australians in the 2026 Census.
'The Government has heard the concerns raised by communities, who deserve the right to be counted. Data collected in the Census is vital for ensuring services and policies reflect the needs of our country's diverse populations.
'This data, along with the Government's Ten-Year National Action Plan for the health and wellbeing of LGBTIQA+ people, will guide how Australia can address health disparities experienced by these communities.
'We have seen the widespread harms caused due to previous exclusions. Today, the Government has recognised the expertise of the Australian Bureau of Statistics and the expert advisory group who are working together to create an inclusive national census.
'Today, the Government listened. And we applaud that.'
ENDS | Media contact: media@humanrights.gov.au or 0457 281 897 (no texts, calls only)
