Australia 2026 Census to Include Sexual Orientation

Australia's 2026 census will include questions on sexual orientation and gender identity following a government reversal after backlash from the LGBTIQ+ community. Initially, the Albanese government had ruled out such questions to avoid divisive debates, but pressure from advocates led to the inclusion. These questions will be optional and only for individuals aged 16 and above. Assistant Minister for Treasury Andrew Leigh and Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced that this decision aligns with recommendations from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and consultations with the LGBTIQ+ expert advisory committee. However, questions on variations of sex characteristics (intersex status) will not be included due to data collection complexities. The government will introduce a legislative instrument to formalize these changes.