The City of Perth has warned ratepayers about scam calls from people claiming to be staff collecting information for the Australian Census.
“City of Perth staff will never call you to ask for your personal information,” its public notice states.
“If you receive a call like this, do not provide any details. Hang up and contact the city directly through our official channels if you’re unsure whether a call is genuine.
“If you’ve received a suspicious call, please let us know and report it to Scamwatch.”
The five-yearly census will be held on Tuesday. August 11. It will collect data about people’s age, country of birth, cultural background, living situation, work and education.
The information will be used to help Federal and local groups plan public funding, infrastructure, schools, healthcare, and community services.
Consumer Protection WA has also posted a warning on their social media.
“With the upcoming Census on 11 August, criminal scammers could exploit the event by impersonating Government officials,” the post states.
“We want you to beware of unsolicited emails, text messages, phone calls, or social media messages claiming to be Census related.”
They warn the Australian Bureau of Statistics will never ask for bank details, credit card information, money or donations, passwords or identity documents or tax file number.
“They will also never offer or provide prizes or incentives for you to complete your Census, contact you via social media sites or call, email or SMS you unless you’ve provided a phone number or email address to one of their representatives,” the post also warns.
For more information on the 2026 Census, visit the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ website or call 1800 181 227.