Census 2021 joins a rich history of controversy and triumph in the national count

Census has again found itself embroiled in a national discussion about the value of the population count. Privacy, religion, gender, and sexual identity have featured in debates about Australia's 18th five-yearly stock take. But not a census goes by without controversy, and for all the census controversies there are triumphs and reasons for celebration. From technological advancement, to social change, and difficult-but-necessary conversations, the history of the Census itself reflects a phenomenal story of Australia. Beyond statistics, census processes have reflected and prompted progress. Census 2021 is no different.