The Census of Population and Housing conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) presents estimates of the prevalence of homelessness, and the characteristics and living arrangements of those experiencing homelessness.

The Census aims to enumerate all persons in Australia on Census night (with the exception of foreign diplomats and their families). The Census is conducted every five years. In accordance with the ABS statistical definition, when a person does not have suitable accommodation alternatives they are considered to be experiencing homelessness if their current living arrangement: is in a dwelling that is inadequate; has no tenure, or their initial tenure is short and not extendable; or does not allow them to have control of, and access to space for social relations.

Census data on the characteristics, geographical distribution and living arrangements of those likely to be homeless or marginally housed are also used in the following dashboard menu options: Homeless estimates - geography and People in other marginal housing.

See ABS 2049.0 – Census of Population and Housing: Estimating homelessness (https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/mf/2049.0) for further information, including in-depth commentary and analysis, in particular the source data Quality Declaration. Source reference tables 1.3, 1.4 and 1.5.