Data quality ratings for 2023 Census variables summarises the quality ratings and priority levels for 2023 Census variables, such as the age and ethnicity variables provided in the first release of census data on 29 May 2024.
This page will be updated to eventually include all census variables as they are released, with key data releases scheduled for 3 October and 7 November 2024.
About the quality rating and priority level processes
We evaluated each variable and assigned them an overall quality rating on a five-point scale ranging from very high to very poor. The same rating scale was used in the 2018 Census, and a similar one used in the 2013 Census, enabling data users to compare data quality across censuses.
Data quality assurance in the 2023 Census has more detail on the quality rating process.
We also assigned a priority level to each of the variables, to indicate the relative importance of the variables. Priority levels are used to help determine things such as placement of questions on census forms, the determination of mandatory fields for the online form, processing rules, analysis efforts, and data quality targets.
Summary of quality ratings and priority levels
The links in the table below go to detailed information about each variable, including definition, priority, quality rating, subject population, question format, data sources, classification information, missing and residual response information, comparability with previous census data, data use, and any issues to be aware of relating to the variable.
2023 Census of Population and Dwellings - Information by concepts has more information about 2023 Census variables.
Variable |
Quality rating |
Priority level |
Very high |
Priority 1 |
|
Very high |
Priority 1 |
|
High |
Priority 1 |
|
High |
Priority 1 |
|
Very high |
Priority 1 |
