The City of Karratha is making sure every person counts in this year’s Census.
The Census is one of the most important ways the community is seen, heard and supported.
Conducted every five years by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, it provides a snapshot of Australia’s population and trends which informs critical decisions that guide the future of the nation.
Information is collected about how many people live in each community, where people usually live, housing, work and education, and family, cultural and community connections.
The data also helps governments plan and receive funding for services and infrastructure, including roads, hospitals, and schools.
Regions like the City of Karratha with large workforce populations are often underrepresented come census night.
City of Karratha Deputy Mayor Jodie Swaffer said when populations are not counted properly it impacts future funding, planning and services for the region.
“We estimate the last Census likely undercounted the population of the City of Karratha by over 5,000 people, with many FIFO workers and Aboriginal people missed” Deputy Mayor Swaffer said.
“This data is pivotal in ensuring we can deliver the infrastructure and developments that our region deserves. That’s why it’s important we come together to make sure everyone is counted.
“Completing the Census is simple, and there is support available if needed from Census staff between July and September.”
Census night is Tuesday 11 August 2026. For remote communities, the Census can be completed between July and September 2026.
To learn more about the Census, visit: https://karratha.wa.gov.au/community/2026-census