The census will ask about your sexual orientation. What should you write?Australia's upcoming 2026 census will include a question about sexual orientation for the first time, asking individuals aged 16 and over to select from options such as 'Straight,' 'Gay or Lesbian,' 'Bisexual,' or 'Prefer not to answer.' The question was developed through extensive consultation with an LGBTIQ+ advisory committee and tested to ensure clarity. It aims to align Australia with similar nations like Canada, Scotland, and England and Wales. The census will also introduce a gender question, allowing responses such as 'Non-binary' or 'Prefer not to answer.' Officials acknowledge that some individuals may find the questions sensitive, particularly those who do not wish to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity. The ABS emphasizes that responses should reflect personal self-identification rather than behavior or relationships.
Bias read (Center): The article presents the census changes as a factual update, emphasizing the development process and the inclusion of diverse identities. While the topic involves social policy and potential controversy around LGBTQ+ rights, the framing remains neutral, avoiding overt advocacy or criticism of any立场.
Why factuality (90): The article accurately describes the introduction of a sexual orientation question in the 2026 Census, mentioning the involvement of an LGBTIQ+ advisory committee. While it doesn't cite the exact name of the committee, it aligns closely with the primary source document regarding the inclusion of suc
Why objectivity (95): The article remains highly objective, presenting the new question and its implications without taking a stance. It acknowledges the sensitivity of the issue and offers balanced explanations of the response options available to participants.
The jobs joining the census and the occupations that have been axedThe 2026 Australian census introduced numerous new occupational categories, including designers, ride-share drivers, play therapists, content creators, outdoor adventure leaders, and cybersecurity analysts. These additions aim to reflect modern and evolving job roles within the economy. Meanwhile, approximately 250 older occupations, such as print journalists, immigration officers, and kennel hands, were retired or consolidated into broader categories. The Design Institute of Australia highlighted the significance of recognizing design as a distinct profession, noting that it contributes over $67.5 billion annually to the Australian economy. Previously, design-related roles were grouped under other categories like artists or architects, making them less visible in official statistics. The inclusion of design as a standalone category allows for more accurate representation of the sector in government decision-making related to funding, training, and workforce planning.
Bias read (Center): The article provides a balanced overview of changes to the census occupations without overtly favoring any particular perspective. It presents both the addition of new roles and the retirement of others, while quoting representatives from the Design Institute of Australia and the ABS to provide a nu
Why factuality (60): The article discusses the 2026 Census and mentions additions and removals of occupations, which is unrelated to the primary source document about the LGBTIQ+ Expert Advisory Committee. It contains factual claims about the census changes but does not reference the EAC or its role. The primary source
Why objectivity (65): The article presents the information neutrally, focusing on the addition and removal of occupations in the census. However, it quotes Simone LeAmon with a positive tone, emphasizing the significance of design being recognized, which could subtly imply approval of the change.
Quiz: Does Australia have more baristas or personal trainers?The article presents a quiz asking readers to guess which occupation has more people in Australia based on the latest census data. The quiz includes comparisons such as baristas versus personal trainers, real estate agents versus receptionists, plumbers versus pharmacists, and others. It encourages users to engage with the content by dragging names into boxes and submitting their answers, offering hints if needed. The quiz is part of a series of similar interactive features provided by ABC News.
Bias read (Center): The article is a non-political quiz focused on occupational demographics and does not involve any politically charged topics. It is purely informational and educational in nature, aiming to engage readers with data through an interactive format.
Why factuality (50): This article discusses a quiz based on census data but does not mention the LGBTIQ+ Expert Advisory Committee or its role in the 2026 Census. It lacks direct connection to the primary source document and makes no factual claims related to the EAC. The content is entirely unrelated to the subject mat
Why objectivity (80): The article maintains a neutral and playful tone throughout, presenting the quiz format without bias or opinion. It avoids taking sides or expressing views on the census or its advisory committees.
Australia
