About the Census:
The Census of Population and Housing (the Census) is the most comprehensive snapshot of Australia and tells the story of how we are changing. It helps us understand what we need now, and into the future.
The Census is run every 5 years. It's one of the largest and most important collections to count the number of people and houses in Australia. The Census asks questions about your age, country of birth, cultural background, living situation, work and education. It's used to estimate Australia's population, distribute government funds, and plan services for individuals, families and communities.
About this role:
Local Engagement Officers work with community groups to build relationships at the local level and interact with the public to raise awareness about the Census. This includes organising, promoting and running Census hubs and information sessions to support people to complete their Census form.
Local Engagement Officers engage and work with communities and groups who may face barriers to participating in the Census. Specialist and generalist jobs are available:
* Local Engagement Officer – Generalist
* Local Engagement Officer – Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Peoples and Communities
* Local Engagement Officer – Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and Communities
* Local Engagement Officer – Homelessness
The ABS is looking for a range of people who:
* have lived experience and/or experience working with and supporting diverse population groups
* have experience training and managing teams of around 10 people
* have community engagement experience and can develop relationships with local councils and community services
* have connections to their local community
* speak a language other than English.
As a Local Engagement Officer, you will:
* interact with the public to raise awareness and respond to questions about the Census
* be responsible for engaging with venues and following procedures to organise Census Pop-up Hubs
* recruit, train, and manage a team and ensure they are well equipped to support people to complete the Census
* receive and distribute field materials as needed
* complete all relevant administrative duties, including completing and approving timesheets and assisting with Work Health and Safety (WHS) checks
* work a mix of weekdays, evenings and weekends
* may be required to assist with follow up when Census forms are not returned.
Local Engagement Officers are required to use their own comprehensively insured vehicle to travel for work. They will receive a Motor Vehicle Allowance when using their personal vehicle for approved purposes. In metropolitan areas, workloads are generally spread over multiple suburbs, whereas rural area workloads may be more widely spread.
Applications for Local Engagement Officers close on 27 January 2026.
For more information about Local Engagement Officer and what's involved, visit
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