Census critical for funding

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn with Census WA Director David Waymouth.

By filling out your Census form on 9 August you are ensuring that the populations of Greater Geraldton and the Midwest region are represented properly and therefore are eligible for crucial community services.

City of Greater Geraldton Mayor Shane Van Styn is sending a strong message to the local community and said population numbers were fundamental in getting funding for key projects.

“We all want the absolute best services for our community and every day I have feedback from locals about getting improved services for health, education and policing,” he said.

“An accurate snapshot of our population will determine government funding for big projects such as our proposed hospital expansion and services including higher Police numbers.”

The information provided in the Census estimates the population, which is used to distribute government funds and plan services for your community – housing, transport, education, industry, hospitals and the environment.

“This count needs to be as accurate as possible and that’s where our community need to do their part,” Mayor Van Styn said.

“The numbers that are collected are also used by investors and large national retailers which could mean some big wins for Greater Geraldton in the near future. 

“It is absolutely imperative that everyone gets on board and fills out their Census,” he added.

“Don’t risk our funding cuts, stand up and be counted.”

As part of Census 2016 the City is hosting a series of hubs throughout the region to help people who may need assistance in filling out their forms.

The Census hubs will be set up in four locations including the CBD, Spalding, Rangeway and Mullewa.

Head to www.cgg.wa.gov.au for full information.