Stand with Christ in the 2026 Census
On Tuesday 11 August 2026, Australians will again be asked to complete the national Census. It is something we do every five years, and while it may seem like little more than a statistical exercise, the Bible reminds us that taking a census has a long and significant history.
In the Book of Exodus, the Lord instructed Moses: “When you take a census of the sons of Israel… each man must pay the Lord a ransom for his life” (Exodus 30:12), and every man over twenty years of age was to be counted (cf. Exodus 30:14). Throughout the Book of Numbers, we read God’s command: “Take a census of the whole community of the sons of Israel” (Numbers 1:2). After forty years in the wilderness, another count was ordered: “Take a census of the whole community of the sons of Israel from the age of twenty years and upwards” (Numbers 26:2-4).
The censuses had practical purposes. They identified those who could serve in the defence of Israel, organised the responsibilities of the tribes and Levites, and prepared the people for entering the Promised Land.
King Solomon also conducted a census, counting the resident aliens in the land as part of the great work of building the Temple (cf. 2 Chronicles 2:17).
Perhaps the best-known census of all is the one that brought Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem. It was because of the decree of Caesar Augustus that they travelled from Nazareth, and there, in humble circumstances, our Saviour was born. What appeared to be an administrative exercise became the means by which God’s saving plan unfolded according to the Scriptures.
Our Australian Census is somewhat different. It is not about raising armies, nor is it simply about taxation. Today, census information helps governments understand the needs of our communities and informs planning for schools, hospitals, aged care, disability services, transport, housing, and welfare. These are all areas in which the Catholic Church has long been deeply engaged through our parishes, schools, hospitals, aged-care facilities, and welfare ministries. Good information helps governments make better decisions, and accurate information about religious affiliation matters.
For this reason, I encourage every Catholic to complete the optional religion question and to do so with confidence by identifying as Catholic.
Our faith is never merely a private opinion. Jesus said plainly: “Anyone who is not with me is against me” (Matthew 12:30 and Luke 11:23). There is no neutral ground when it comes to belonging to Christ.
St Paul was equally direct when he wrote to Timothy: “If we hold firm, then we shall reign with him. If we disown him, then he will disown us” (2 Timothy 2:12). These words are not intended to frighten us but to encourage us to be courageous in witnessing to the Lord who has given everything for us.
In 2021 there were vigorous public campaigns encouraging Australians to tick “No religion” on their Census forms. It is likely that similar voices will be heard again this year. As Catholics, we should not allow ourselves to be swept along by cultural trends or social pressure.
Instead, remember two moments in the life of St Peter. On Good Friday, overcome by fear, he denied even knowing Jesus. Yet on the day of Pentecost, filled with the Holy Spirit, Peter stood before the crowds and proclaimed Christ boldly and without hesitation.
The Census offers each of us a quiet but important opportunity to witness. It is a simple question on a form, yet it is also an opportunity to stand with Jesus Christ.
When you complete your Census on 11 August, I encourage you to answer the religion question with gratitude, confidence, and hope. Be pleased to identify yourself as Catholic. Be proud of the faith that has shaped your life. Stand with Christ.
Every blessing,
Archbishop Tony Ireland
Archbishop of Hobart