Minute With The Mayor Mayor Ramon Jayo

Today, I would like to remind you of the importance of completing the Census forms for you and your family.

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The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) will conduct the national Census of Population 2026 on Tuesday, 11 August 2026.

Distribution of the Census forms within Hinchinbrook has already commenced.

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As you may be aware, the Census is the primary source of population data used by the Federal Government to determine the allocation of Financial Assistance Grants to the Australian states and territories. Each state's share of the Australian Government funding pool is calculated on population, making the accuracy of ABS population data critically important to ensuring Queensland (and hence the local governments within Queensland) receives its fair share of this funding.

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Local government grants commissions in each state and the Northern Territory recommend the distribution of funding under the Financial Assistance Grant Program to local councils in accordance with the Act and the National Principles for Allocating Grants. The Financial Assistance Grants provide funding for schools, hospitals, roads, and public transport, and also cater for local needs such as supporting community groups and local programs.

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The Financial Assistance Grant Program consists of two components:

• A general purpose component, which is distributed between the states and territories according to population (i.e. on a per capita basis); and

• An identified local road component, which is distributed between the states and territories according to fixed historical shares.

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Both components of the grant are untied in the hands of local government, allowing councils to spend the grants according to local priorities.

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First and foremost, completing your Census return is a legal obligation, but it is also important because it ensures that, as a community, we access the appropriate financial resources from the Federal Government to fund local services.

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