Australia Excludes LGBTIQ+ Questions from 2026 Census

The Albanese government's decision to exclude questions on gender and sexuality from the 2026 Census has sparked significant backlash from various groups and individuals, including Labor MP Josh Burns, the sex discrimination commissioner, and LGBTQ+ advocacy groups. Assistant Treasurer Andrew Leigh justified the decision by citing concerns over potential divisive debates and the weaponization of these issues against the LGBTIQA+ community. However, critics argue that this exclusion will perpetuate data gaps that hinder effective health planning and support for the LGBTQ+ population. Burns emphasized that the census should be inclusive to ensure all community members are counted, while advocacy groups labeled the decision as a betrayal that renders LGBTQ+ individuals invisible. The Australian Bureau of Statistics had previously apologized for past exclusions and had planned to include these questions following extensive consultations.