PwC to help the Australian Bureau of Statistics with Census 2021
As the 2021 census draws closer, the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is looking for support to compile the vast repository of data. Global professional services firm PwC has been shortlisted alongside recruitment firm The Adecco Group to help the ABS with various aspects of the project.
The latest census is likely to be more digital than ever, with the majority of the population expected to fill in their responses online. ABS requires experienced support that can ensure that the IT infrastructure remains reliable and efficient as the large volume of responses roll in.
The Big Four accounting and advisory firms have been scrambling to develop digital capabilities over the last year, and PwC has been amongst the forerunners. The firm appointed 27 new partners to its Australia practice last year, the majority of which joined its Technology wing.
The Australian Cyber Security Centre will participate to ensure that no data breaches occur, while the digital transformation agency will offer additional support. PwC’s role meanwhile, will be to design and develop the website for the census, which is expected to be housed on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud.
The selection of AWS as the cloud platform of choice comes in light of an indication provided by the Australian Signals Directorate that the platform is worthy and capable of hosting sensitive information. The Directorate has provided ‘Protected’ certification to AWS, in addition to six other cloud networks.
Commenting on the project, Deputy Statistician at ABS Chris Liberi said, “After rigorous selection processes, the appointments of PwC Australia and The Adecco Group are major milestones in delivering a safe, secure and high-quality 2021 Census for all Australians.” The Adecco Group has been involved in a number of high profile census projects internationally.
“PwC Australia brings to the 2021 Census a wealth of experience in managing and protecting sensitive personal information across the government, banking, superannuation and health sectors. Keeping people’s information secure and confidential is the highest priority for the ABS. It was a key factor in the digital services selection process and a critical consideration in the design of Census activities," he added.