Australia Explained

Reflecting our evolving population, AFL has become more multicultural with many new migrants taking up footy for a sense of belonging. These athletes often act as an inspiration and role model for their communities.

Australia is undergoing digital disruption that is set to dramatically change the workforce. Yet with a continued decline in student uptake of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) school subjects Australia will need to look overseas to bring in skilled migrants as we prepare the next generation for the digital future.

Every hour four people go missing in Australia. This year's National Missing Persons Week (31 July - 6 August) aims to raise awareness about the impacts on families and communities when a loved-one goes missing.

Australias census has a history of keeping personal information secure and private. However, this year the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) will make it compulsory for people to include their names and addresses. Privacy advocates are concerned that the move will not only lead to public backlash against the census but also undermine the accuracy and credibility of the census results.

The 2016 census on August 9 will be Australia's biggest ever survey. Run every five years, the census identifies key characteristics of the population to help plan for the country's future. And this year most people will complete it online.