The Australian Census is the largest data collection undertaken by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, and has been running for over 100 years.  The aim of the Census is to accurately collect data on the key characteristics of all people in Australia on Census night and the dwellings in which they live.  These data are crucial to the creation of other ABS statistics, including official population estimates which are released quarterly.  This seminar will provide an overview of the Australian Census and delve into the method that ABS Demography employs to compile population estimates from Census data.  Special emphasis will be given to how ABS Demography ensures the quality of the population estimates.

Alex Cleland, Senior Demographer, Australian Bureau of Statistics, is an experienced Demographer at the Australian Bureau of Statistics.  He graduated in 2008 from the ANU with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Population Studies and has since completed graduate study in Statistics at the University of Canberra.  Since joining the ABS Demography Section in 2009, Alex has gained experience in compiling population estimates based on Census results and in analysis of fertility and mortality statistics.

Emily Walter, Assistant Director, 2016 Census Data Assurance and Dissemination, Australian Bureau of Statistics, has extensive experience in the compilation and dissemination of data from the Census.  She has worked with Census data since 2001 and is responsible for the final review of 2016 Census data prior to output.  Emily currently chairs an international working group looking at dissemination of Census data.