The use of data has always been an essential part of measuring and understanding the world around us. It provides valuable insights and evidence for policymakers, researchers, and citizens. However, the traditional method of collecting data through surveys can be time-consuming, expensive, and often suffers from non-response bias. In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of non-survey administrative data for statistics and evidence-building, which is changing the landscape of data collection and analysis. In this article, we will discuss the progress made by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) and its use of non-survey administrative data.
On June 10, 2021, the Committee on National Statistics (CNSTAT) hosted a seminar to highlight the increasing trend of using non-survey administrative data for statistics and evidence-building. The seminar focused on the progress made by the ABS in this area, and how it is transforming the way data is collected and analyzed in Australia.
The ABS has been at the forefront of this data revolution, recognizing the potential of non-survey administrative data to complement and enhance existing survey data. These are data collected by government agencies, businesses, and other organizations for administrative purposes, such as taxation, social welfare, and healthcare. The use of this data has significant benefits, including cost savings, improved accuracy, and increased efficiency in data collection.
At the seminar, the ABS presented some of its recent projects that have utilized non-survey administrative data. One such project is the Census Data Enhancement project, which combines census data with administrative data to create a more comprehensive and accurate picture of the Australian population. This project has the potential to revolutionize how census data is collected and analyzed, providing more accurate and timely information for policymakers.
Another project highlighted at the seminar was the use of administrative data to measure international trade. The ABS has been collaborating with the Department of Home Affairs to use import and export data from customs records to enhance their existing trade statistics. This collaboration has led to more accurate and timely trade data, allowing for better tracking of imports and exports and a deeper understanding of Australia’s trade patterns.
The ABS has also been using non-survey administrative data in the field of social welfare. Through its partnership with the Department of Social Services, the ABS has been able to access data on social security programs, allowing for a more comprehensive analysis of the well-being of Australians. This data can help identify vulnerable groups and inform the development of policies and interventions to better support them.
The use of non-survey administrative data is not limited to the ABS. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has also been a significant contributor. As part of the Tax Office Data for Social Policy and Research (TOPSR) project, the ATO has shared tax data with the ABS, enabling a more accurate and timely analysis of income and wealth distribution in Australia. This data has also been used to study the effects of government tax and welfare policies on different income groups.
However, as with any data collection method, there are challenges and limitations. The ABS has stressed the importance of maintaining data confidentiality and privacy, and has implemented strict protocols and safeguards to ensure the protection of personal information. There are also concerns about the potential biases in administrative data, as it may not capture the entire population or may only focus on specific areas of interest. The ABS is continuously working to address these challenges and ensure that the data collected is representative and accurate.
The use of non-survey administrative data has opened new opportunities for the ABS and other government agencies to better understand and address the complex issues facing society today. It has also allowed for more efficient and cost-effective data collection, freeing up resources and time for other critical tasks and projects. The potential of this data is immense, and the ABS is committed to exploring and harnessing its full potential.
In conclusion, the rise of non-survey administrative data for statistics and evidence-building is changing the way data is collected and analyzed in Australia. The ABS has been at the forefront of this data revolution, using innovative methods to combine and enhance existing data sources. This has led to more accurate, timely, and comprehensive data, which is crucial for evidence-based policymaking. As we look towards the future, the ABS is dedicated to further developing and expanding the use of non-survey administrative data to ensure a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of our society.
