This course focuses on the practical use of Census and demographic data to support strategic planning and evidence-based decision-making. It is designed for planners and related professionals who need to understand population characteristics, trends, and change over time, and apply this evidence to policy development, planning strategies, and investment decisions.
The course introduces participants to Australian Census data, with a focus on how demographic information can be accessed, interpreted, and applied using online tools provided by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Using the most recent Census data alongside historical datasets, participants will learn how to analyse population structure, growth, housing, workforce, and socio-economic characteristics at different geographic scales. Emphasis is placed on understanding what the data can reliably support, how to compare places over time, and how demographic evidence informs planning priorities and strategic responses.
Through practical examples, participants will learn how to extract and manage demographic data as spreadsheets for further analysis, and how to work with Census data within GIS environments such as QGIS and other GIS platforms. The course focuses on producing clear demographic outputs, including tables, charts, and maps, that can be confidently used in planning reports, strategies, and presentations, while recognising data limitations and the importance of professional interpretation.
Designed for
This course is designed for strategic, statutory, transport, and social planners who use demographic evidence to inform planning decisions. It is also suitable for practitioners in the public and private sectors who work with population data, including engineers, researchers, educators, property and development professionals, and others involved in urban and regional analysis. The course is relevant for those seeking to strengthen their ability to interpret demographic trends and apply them meaningfully in planning and policy contexts.
Learning Outcomes
By completing this course, participants will:
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Understand the structure and key components of Australian Census data
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Use Australian Bureau of Statistics online tools to access and analyse demographic data
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Analyse demographic data for specific geographic areas and planning contexts
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Export and manage demographic data as spreadsheets for further analysis
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Work with Census and demographic data in GIS platforms
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Produce clear tables, charts, and maps to support strategic planning outputs
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Apply demographic evidence appropriately while recognising data limitations
Presenter
Dr. Daniel Paez is a transport planner and policy specialist with over 15 years of experience in transport, land use, and strategic planning. He holds a PhD in Geomatics from the University of Melbourne and a Graduate Diploma in Law from the University of Canberra and is currently studying a Juris Doctor. Daniel has advised on complex policy reforms for Australian state and federal governments, as well as international organisations, including the World Bank and the United Nations. His work bridges technical spatial analysis and practical planning applications, supporting planners to produce clear, defensible, and decision-ready outputs.
Terms & Conditions
Registrations cancelled more than 14 days prior to the event date will not incur any fees and a full refund will be granted.
If you cannot attend and you are within 14 days of the event date, you can transfer your ticket to another person.
In all other situations we cannot issue a refund or credit.
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