An Essential Media poll commissioned by the Census – Not Religious? Mark No Religion campaign has found substantial differences in how Australians respond to religion questions based on question format, according to research released ahead of the 2026 Australian census scheduled for 11 August.
When respondents were presented with the existing census format—a list of religions with “no religion” and “other” as options—43% selected “no religion”. However, when given a yes/no question first (“do you have a religion?”) followed by a text box for those answering affirmatively, 54% indicated they had no religion. Campaign organizers argue this difference, representing approximately 2 million additional adults, indicates the current format may overstate religious affiliation in Australia.
The campaign contends that the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ existing question format is not accurately capturing the nation’s actual religious demographics. Campaign spokesperson Michael Dove characterized census data as essential for informing public debate, policy, and funding decisions. The campaign website references multiple surveys suggesting the non-religious population exceeds the 39% figure recorded in the 2021 census, when 43.9% identified as Christian.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics previously considered modifying the question after the 2021 census, noting feedback that the wording “assumes you have a religion”. However, the agency ultimately decided against changes, citing concerns that revisions would compromise comparability with historical data and that no single formulation could satisfy all stakeholder needs. The ABS has instead made incremental adjustments for 2026, including reordering response categories and changing data processing methods.
Dove indicated the campaign views the 2026 census as unchanged and is already directing efforts toward the 2031 census. Long-standing debates about the religion question have included instances such as over 70,000 Australians identifying as Jedi Knights in 2001 and members of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster selecting “no religion” to avoid being counted as Christian.
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