

 

The ABS is introducing a new Statistical Geography Standard from July 2011.

 

Known as the Australian Statistical Geography Standard (ASGS), the new standard means that changes over time are minimised, assisting in the maintenance of quality time-series data. In addition the ASGS, together with improved methods, will allow for more accurate 'correspondences' to translate ABS data to non-ABS administrative and geographic regions.

 

All ABS data with a spatial dimension will progressively adopt the ASGS from 1 July, beginning with Building Approvals in August 2011. Data from the 2011 Census of Population and Housing will be released on the ASGS, from June 2012.

 

For anyone working with geographical statistical data from the ABS, workshops are being held in May and July in each Australian state and territory.

 

The sessions will run for an hour and a half, and will include information about the need for this change, the conceptual basis of the ASGS, a timetable for the release of ABS data on the ASGS, and how the ABS is assisting in the transition from the existing spatial classification (the ASGC) to the ASGS. There will be a 45-minute presentation followed by time available for questions, both in the general forum and on a one-on-one basis.

 

For more information on the new ASGC standard, visit http://www.abs.gov.au/websitedbs/D3310114.nsf/home/geography

 

For more information on the sessions running in your area, visit http://www.abs.gov.au/websitedbs/D3310114.nsf/home/Australian+Statistical+Geography+Standard+(ASGS)