Unlike previous years the 2021 census will largely be done online.

Details including a log-in number and password have been sent to households.

And while census night is next Tuesday, August 10 you can log on to fill out your form anytime between now and next Tuesday.

The letter explains that the census is compulsory and anyone who has not completed it by Thursday, August 12 will be contacted by letter or in person.

ALSO MAKING NEWS:

Census executive director Andrew Henderson said this year's census was more flexible than other years.

"You don't have to wait to complete your form on census night. We know people expect flexibility and convenience, so this makes it easier for people to fill in their census when it best suits them," he said.

"There are two new questions in the 2021 census, the first changes to questions collected since 2006," he said.

"The new questions are on long-term health conditions, such as arthritis and diabetes, and on defence force participation."

Member for Calare and Veterans Affairs and Defence Personnel minister Andrew Gee said the defence question would help fill a gap in government information.

"The 2021 census will provide us with a much clearer picture of how many veterans there are and the areas they live in, which will allow the Department of Veterans' Affairs and ex-service organisations to target key support services in the places where they're needed most," he said.

Mr Henderson said anyone who could not complete their census form online should call 1800 130 250 to request a paper form which would be delivered to them.

"We want to make sure everyone is included in the census, so we have provided a range of help and support options to assist people in completing the form, including on the census website and over the phone.

"We also have braille forms, audio instructions, video guides with closed captions, and translation services available," he said.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: