REASON FAMILIES FACING $222 DAILY FINES

Households are being fined hundreds of dollars a day for failing to complete this year’s Census.

The final date for filling in the Australian Bureau of Statistics data form was Friday, October 1.

More than 10 million had been returned as of last Tuesday, representing an estimated 90 per cent of the population.

However, another 10 per cent are now facing fines of up to $222 a day.

Statistician Dr David Gruen said no community was too small to count. “We want to make sure everyone is represented,” he said.

Under the Census and Statistics Act 1905, people can be prosecuted for failing to complete their census.

A notice can then be issued that directs them to complete the form.

If they refuse to do so, they can be issued with the daily fine until it’s submitted.

According to the ABS website, Australians may also receive “a criminal conviction” if they continue to refuse.

“If you knowingly give the ABS false of misleading statements you can be fined …$2220,” it reads.

The Census takes place every five years, and provides a snapshot of Australia’s economic, social and cultural make-up.