Help make play count | 16 to 22 March 2026!

Every week, thousands of families come together to connect, learn, explore and play. During census week, we take a moment to capture a snapshot of the families we have attending playgroup sessions. Your play truly counts.

What Is Census Week?

Census Week is a national initiative held as part of National Playgroup Week designed to capture how many families are attending play sessions, where they’re participating, and how groups are engaging in meaningful, community driven play.

The data collected helps us paint a powerful picture for government, funders and partners demonstrating the essential role early play experiences have in supporting children’s development and building playful, connected, communities.

No personal or demographic information is collected - just simple attendance numbers.

How it Works?

During every Play Matters-supported play session held throughout Census Week, facilitators (both paid and volunteer) will record:

• Playgroup name, location, day and time
• Number of children attending
• Number of adults attending
• Type of playgroup
  

Attendance is recorded through a digital form accessed via email, QR Code or text message link.

For Our Playgroup Facilitators?

Your role is vital in making Census Week successful.

Here’s how you can help:

1. Save the date (16 to 22 March) and plan ahead for your Census Week sessions.
2. Count attendees at your session held during census week (16 to 22 March) — both children and adults.
3. Submit your attendance using the special census form link. This will be sent via email, text message and if we don't hear from you, a follow-up phone call from a Play Matters team member.

Your contribution helps us demonstrate the reach, variety and impact of play throughout communities across Australia.

Why Census Week Matters

Capturing attendance during this week helps us:

• Highlight the number of families who benefit from regular playgroup participation.
• Demonstrate the widespread positive impact on child development, confidence, and early learning.
• Show how play builds relationships, reduces isolation, and strengthens community connections.
• Advocate for funding, resources and greater support for playbased programs nationwide.

By taking part, you’re helping us champion the value of play in every child’s life.

Join Us and Make Your Play Count

Whether you’re a parent, carer, volunteer, or facilitator — your involvement tells an important story about the power of community play.

Pop into your local Play Matters session during National Playgroup Week and Census Week (16–22 March 2026) and help us celebrate what makes play so meaningful.

Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the week.