Australia Adds Sexuality Question to 2026 Census

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that the 2026 census will include a single question on sexuality, after initially scrapping comprehensive questions on gender identity and sexual orientation to avoid a 'culture war'. This decision has been met with mixed reactions, with LGBTQI+ advocates arguing it doesn't go far enough and warning of a potential boycott. Equality Australia and other advocates insist that all members of the LGBTQI+ community, including trans and gender-diverse individuals, must be counted. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, who had previously criticized a 'woke agenda', expressed support for including gender and sexuality questions. The backlash from within Labor and the LGBTQI+ community has highlighted broader tensions about the government's progressive commitments.