Important Update: COVID-19 and the 2021 Non-Government Schools Census 15 July 2021

The unpredictable nature of COVID-19 has resulted in lockdowns in various locations across Australia. It is likely state and territory restrictions will see some students undertake remote or flexible learning at home for a significant portion of the Census Reference Period.

The department continues to monitor the effect COVID-19 is having on local communities and schools.

Schools subject to state and territory restrictions which coincide with a significant portion of the Census Reference Period will be written to directly with instructions on how to report students in the Census.

Schools not subject to state and territory restrictions must be submit a Special Circumstances Application for students who did not attend school, at any time, during the Census Reference Period.

Inclusion of arrangements for schools affected by COVID 19 restrictions have been updated in the 2021 Census Requirements.

For more information about Remote and Flexible Learning, see our FAQs. 

For information about COVID restrictions in your area, please refer to the advice from your state or territory government.