Social indicators and social statistics in Australia

Abstract

Good social statistics inform governments and assist the democratic process. They help in developing social policies and in monitoring social progress. They also provide essential information for research, both inside and outside government.

This paper outlines key aspects of the organisation and approach to social indicators and statistics within the ABS. It describes the concept of social well-being and its relationship to areas of social concern. A status response model is presented as the paradigm which has guided the development of Australian social statistics. This model links needs flowing from social conditions with society and government responses. Sources of social statistics are described with particular reference to the ABS household survey program. Finally ABS work on social analysis and population groups is discussed.