Territorians will need to buck the “lazy” tag this Census if they are to secure much needed federal funding for areas such as education, health and roads, according to a population expert.
Senior Research Fellow with The Northern Institute at Charles Darwin University, Andrew Taylor said that with Territorians historically among the worst at filling out their Census forms, a complete turnaround was required.
“With less than a month until Census night, I am urging all Territorians to make sure they count,” he said.
“If you don’t fill out your form completely and accurately you really have no right to complain about roads, education, housing, health or even the quality of restaurants.”
Mr Taylor said that information collected from the Census was used widely in planning for future services and for understanding what’s unique about the Territory.
“Everyone’s information is combined to give an overall picture of the types of people living in towns, cities and out bush and what their needs are now and will be into the future,” he said.
Mr Taylor was also quick to play down the “big brother” urban myth.
“Your name doesn’t get recorded and all information is kept confidential and destroyed after it’s entered on to the system.
“The easiest way to complete your form is over the Internet. It’s quick, easy and secure.”
Census will be held on Tuesday, 9 August.