A new survey suggests that Australia may no longer be a majority religious country if the census question format is changed. The Essential Media poll indicates that 54% of respondents would select 'no religion' if asked in a yes/no format, compared to 39% in the current format used in the 2021 census. The poll was commissioned by the Census – Not Religious? Mark No Religion campaign, which argues that the current format undercounts those without religion. Spokesperson Michael Dove emphasized the importance of accurate census data for informing policy and funding decisions.
Key Details
The survey results come ahead of the 2026 Australian census scheduled for August 11. The debate over the census question has been ongoing, with past instances of Australians identifying as Jedi Knights or members of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster to avoid being counted as Christians. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there has been a steady decline in Christianity over the past 50 years, although it remains the most common religion in the country.
Background
The potential shift in religious identification could have implications for various sectors, including social services and community funding, as policymakers rely on census data to allocate resources.
Related coverage: U.S.-Iran Cease-Fire Ends Amid Escalating Military Strikes.
A significant change in the religious demographic could influence funding allocations for social services and community programs, particularly those that rely on religious affiliations. Investors will watch the upcoming census results for insights into changing societal trends and their potential impact on policy decisions.