An Essential Media poll commissioned by the Census – Not Religious? Mark No Religion campaign has found significant differences in how Australians report their religious affiliation depending on question format. The survey tested two approaches ahead of the 2026 Australian census scheduled for 11 August.
Using the existing census format, where respondents select from a list including common religions, “no religion,” and “other,” 43% of poll participants chose “no religion.” This represents a slight increase from the 39% recorded at the 2021 census. However, when the same respondents were instead presented with a yes/no question asking whether they have a religion, followed by a text box for those answering affirmatively, 54% selected “no religion.” Campaign organizers estimate this difference represents approximately 2 million additional adults without religious affiliation.
The campaign argues that the current census question format overstates Australia’s religiousness and undercounts those without religion. Campaign spokesperson Michael Dove contended that the census question wording “assumes you have a religion” and emphasized the importance of accurate religious demographic data for informing policy and funding decisions. The poll surveyed over 2,000 people in each format group.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics previously considered modifying the question after receiving feedback from the 2021 census but ultimately decided against changes. The bureau cited concerns that altering the question would compromise data comparability with previous censuses and that it could not design a question meeting all stakeholder needs. For the 2026 census, the ABS has instead provided additional instructions, reordered response categories to reflect the most common religious groups, and adjusted data processing methods to capture more detailed responses.
Religious affiliation in Australia has shown long-term trends, with Christianity remaining the most common religion at 43.9% in 2021 but experiencing steady decline. Affiliations with other faiths and those reporting no religion have consistently risen. Campaign organizers indicated they have redirected efforts toward potential changes for the 2031 census.
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