Today, the Justice Committee presented its report on the Data and Statistics (Census) Amendment Bill to Parliament.
While there is general support for modernising the census, there are a number of questions that Stats NZ will need to address.
The questions raised relate to the accuracy and reliability of an admin data-first census model and the quality of data it would produce, particularly for iwi Māori, Pacific peoples and other smaller population groups. There are also some questions about the timing of the change.
For more than a decade, Stats NZ has been focused on modernising the census to ensure New Zealand continues to have high-quality, relevant, and sustainable population and housing data and statistics. Combining administrative and survey data to produce official statistics is a well-tested approach. It was used in both the 2018 and 2023 Censuses.
A modernised approach means using admin data more and surveys less. Stats NZ would make greater use of information already collected by government, supported by an annual census survey. Stats NZ would continue working with communities, particularly those not currently well represented in administrative data, to develop tailored approaches that ensure their data needs are met.
“The modernised census model would enable the production of census data and statistics every year, in a more cost-effective and sustainable way. It would provide New Zealanders with more timely and relevant information to support decision-making and planning,” says Colin Lynch, Government Statistician and Stats NZ Chief Executive.
Over the coming months, as consideration of the legislation continues, Stats NZ will work with the Minister of Statistics, partners, customers, and communities to address the questions raised in the Committee’s report.
The proposed modernised census approach is dependent on legislative change. Until the future legislative framework is confirmed, the current requirements remain in place, including the requirement for Stats NZ to deliver a census in 2028.
Stats NZ is undertaking planning work to understand what a 2028 Census could look like if that becomes necessary.
“As Government Statistician, I am committed to delivering high-quality data that is meaningful, relevant, and timely and we will work hard to achieve that. I will ensure we are prepared to meet our statutory obligations under any future scenario,” says Colin.
