The Australian Bureau of Statistics is looking for 29,000 Census Collectors from every corner of Australia to work on the 2011 Census of Population and Housing.
Maureen Fairbanks, a semi-retired mystery shopper is planning to re-apply for a Census Collector position in April.
“In 2006 I decided to apply for the role to get a bit of extra money. I found being a Collector surprisingly good fun.”
Maureen says Collector jobs are ideal for Australians not working fulltime. “You develop a real sense of community. It was fantastic for me. I was a Collector in a neighbouring suburb and was able to walk from home,” she says.
Intrigue led Virginia Matthews to apply for a Census Collector job.
“I applied for the position because it was something different. You always hear about the Census and I just wanted to see what it was like. I just wanted to try it out for myself,” she says.
Virginia was responsible for the distribution and collection of Census forms in the South Sydney suburb of Rockdale.
“It was hectic but very rewarding. You get to meet some really nice people.” Virginia says a Census Collector position in 2011 would be perfect for a casual worker.
“Go for it. It’s ideal for someone with a part-time job who has a few hours spare in the evening,” she says.
Head of the Population Census program Paul Lowe says Collectors are crucial to the success of the 2011 Census.
“Census Collectors are the most important cog in the Census machine. Without Collectors, Australia could not be counted,” Mr Lowe says.
Census Collectors are needed to help deliver and collect approximately 14.2 million Census forms to Australia’s 9.8 million households.
Across Australia, Collectors will be responsible for about 500 households in cities or about 200 households in Australia’s regional areas.
Census Collectors will receive between $1,300 and $2,800 for the casual position and will be employed from 1 July until 8 September.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics provides all training for Census Collectors.
Complete the short application form online at abs.gov.au/census or apply over the phone by calling 1800 420 182.
