Introduction
The Annual Local Authority Census (LAC) has undergone a number of changes over the years as accounting standards, conceptual standards, and/or data requirements change.
In 2009, Statistics New Zealand undertook a review of the LAC, in partnership with the Department of Internal Affairs, to address concerns raised by the local government sector. These concerns centred on the difficulty of completing the existing questionnaire due to the lack of fit with councils systems and the consequent usefulness of some of the information collected. The outcome of this work resulted in the introduction of a new Excel-based electronic questionnaire. Also developed was a second Excel questionnaire collecting Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) data for the Department of Internal Affairs.
About the LAC
| Purpose |
The LAC collects information about the financial performance of local authorities |
| Selection process |
All local authorities in New Zealand are selected |
| Frequency |
Annually |
| Results |
Local Authority Statistics |
| Compulsory requirement |
The LAC is mandatory under the Statistics Act 1975. |
About the LTCCP
| Purpose |
The LTCCP survey collects information about local authorities’ financial forecasts for the next 10 years based on their latest plans |
| Selection process |
All local authorities in New Zealand are selected |
| Frequency |
Annually |
| Results |
LTCCP results |
| Completion requirement |
This survey is being conducted for the Department of Internal Affairs and will provide a valuable data source for councils. While participation is not mandatory under the Statistics Act 1975, it is important that all local authorities take part. |
Further information
Further information on the surveys is contained in the Help Notes PDF attached to this webpage
Who can I contact for help?
For questions relating to the LAC please contact tim.calder@stats.govt.nz or jonathan.sim@stats.govt.nz, or phone 04 931 4600. For questions about the analysis and use of the LTCCP information please contact graeme.thomson@dia.govt.nz, or phone 04 494 5715