The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has approached the Dutch Australian Cultural Centre (DACC) to assist with recruiting people from the Dutch-Australian community to support the 2026 Australian Census.
Every five years, the Census provides a comprehensive snapshot of who we are as a nation. The information collected directly influences planning and funding for essential services such as health care, education, transport, housing and community infrastructure. For culturally and linguistically diverse communities, including the Dutch-Australian community, accurate participation is essential to ensure our presence, needs and contributions are properly reflected.
The next Census will take place on Tuesday 11 August 2026, and preparations are already well underway
Why the ABS is seeking community involvement
To deliver the Census effectively, the ABS relies on a large temporary workforce drawn from local communities across Australia. For the 2026 Census, more than 30,000 people will be recruited nationally in a range of roles, including community-facing and leadership positions
Of particular relevance to the Dutch community is the role of Local Engagement Officer (LEO). These officers play a critical role in ensuring that people from diverse backgrounds feel informed, supported and confident in participating in the Census.
The role of a Local Engagement Officer
Local Engagement Officers work at the local level and:
- manage and support a team of Census field staff
- build relationships with community organisations and local councils
- organise and run Census information sessions and hubs
- assist people who may face barriers to completing the Census, including older Australians and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
- help ensure everyone feels safe and respected when participating in the Census
The ABS is particularly interested in applicants who have strong community connections, experience working with diverse groups, and the ability to communicate clearly and respectfully.
Who should consider applying
People from the Dutch-Australian community are strongly encouraged to apply, especially those who:
- are well connected within their local Dutch or broader multicultural networks
- have experience in community engagement, education, social services, or volunteer coordination
- have managed or trained small teams
- speak Dutch or another language in addition to English
- are comfortable engaging with older community members
Local Engagement Officers are paid $42.65 per hour (inclusive of casual loading), plus superannuation, and work flexible hours, including some evenings and weekends. The role requires use of a personal vehicle, with a motor vehicle allowance provided
How and when to apply
Applications for Local Engagement Officer roles open on 5 January 2026.
Interested individuals can apply directly through the ABS:
- Website: https://census.abs.gov.au/jobs
- Talent Community: applicants can also register on the same website to receive alerts about Census job opportunities
- Recruitment Support Line: 1300 100 557 for questions or assistance
How the DACC is supporting this initiative
By sharing this opportunity, the DACC is helping ensure that the Dutch-Australian community is visible, accurately represented, and supported during the 2026 Census. Participation in Census employment is a practical way to contribute to Australia while also strengthening recognition of our community’s long-standing presence and contribution.
We encourage eligible community members to consider applying and to share this information within their networks.
If you have any questions about the role or would like guidance on where to find more information, please refer directly to the ABS links above.
