Australian Bureau of Statistics, The

Australia’s official statistical organisation

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) assist and encourage informed decision-making, research and discussion with governments and the community by providing a high quality, objective and responsive national statistical service. Services provided by the ABS include:

ABS Subscription Services: access to information about the latest product releases via email
AusStats: access to all ABS products online, free or charged
ABS Consultancy Services: an Information Consultancy Service specifically tailored for client needs
Services for Universities: statistical information for students and staff
Library Extension Program: ABS products are available in over 500 libraries in Australia free of charge, and many more uniquely tailored services.

The ABS began as the Commonwealth Bureau of Census and Statistics (CBCS) and was established under the Census and Statistics Act in 1905, with Sir George Knibbs appointed the first Commonwealth Statistician. Initially the Bureau was located in Melbourne and was attached to the Department of Home Affairs.

In 1928 the Bureau was relocated to Canberra and in 1932 it moved to the Treasury portfolio. Unification of the state statistical offices with the CBCS was finally achieved in the late 1950s. In 1974, the CBCS was abolished and the ABS was established in its place. In 1975, the Australian Bureau of Statistics Act established the ABS as a Statutory Authority headed by the Australian Statistician with the status of Permanent Head, responsible to the Treasurer.

Last updated by James Parker (2009-10-23)