The Design Institute of Australia (DIA) is on a mission to make sure designers are recognized and counted in the 2026 Census. With a creative campaign called 'Write Designer', the DIA is urging designers to identify themselves as such in the upcoming Census, which will take place on August 11th. This initiative is a significant step towards bringing the value and impact of design to the forefront of national awareness.
Design, an integral part of our daily lives, has long been an unsung hero in Australia's economy. The DIA estimates that the design sector contributes a staggering $67.5 billion to the country's economy annually. However, the profession has historically been under-represented and under-counted in official statistics. This campaign aims to change that by providing designers with a clear and specific category to identify themselves in the Census.
The 'Write Designer' campaign is more than just a call to action; it's a symbolic gesture of advocacy for the design profession. DIA Chief Executive Simone LeAmon emphasizes that the campaign is a collective effort to highlight the importance of design. She believes that by participating in the Census, designers can contribute to a more accurate representation of their profession, which in turn will lead to better understanding and appreciation of design's role in society.
The campaign's creative collaboration involves a diverse group of talents, including Clemenger BBDO, ARIA Award-winning artist N'fa Jones, composer Jonah Gabriel, and numerous Australian design studios and businesses. This collaboration showcases the breadth and depth of design practice across the country, from graphic and interior design to fashion, animation, and UI/UX.
To participate, designers are encouraged to select the specific occupation category '242 Design Professionals' in the Census, which includes various design disciplines. Additionally, they are asked to describe their work in the 'tasks' section, starting with 'Designing...', to ensure accurate classification. By doing so, designers can help create a comprehensive and accurate picture of the Australian design profession.
The DIA's initiative is a powerful reminder of the importance of design in our lives and the need to recognize and value it. It also highlights the power of collective action in advocating for a profession that often goes unnoticed. As designers, by participating in the Census, we can contribute to a more inclusive and informed society, where the value of design is truly understood and celebrated.
