Churches across Australia are being encouraged to take part in the 2026 National Church Life Survey (NCLS), helping build a clearer picture of the health, vitality, and future of the Church across the nation.
Why Does the Survey Matter?
For more than 35 years, the National Church Life Survey has provided churches with trusted research to help them better understand the people they serve and the communities around them.
Held every five years since 1991, the NCLS is recognised as one of the largest and longest-running studies of church life in the world. It gives church leaders valuable data to identify strengths, understand challenges, and make informed decisions about the future of ministry.
As churches continue navigating changing communities, evolving culture, and new opportunities for outreach, the survey offers practical insights that can help shape mission and ministry for years to come.
A Snapshot of Church Life Across Australia
The 2026 National Church Life Survey is expected to include:
- More than 20 Christian denominations
- Over 3,000 churches
- More than 250,000 church attenders
- More than 7,000 church leaders
- Surveys available in multiple languages
- Both online and paper survey options
Together, these responses create one of the most comprehensive pictures of church life in Australia, helping churches learn from national trends while also receiving valuable insights into their own congregation.
When Does It Happen?
The survey will run throughout August, September, and October 2026.
Churches are encouraged to register and order their survey resources ahead of time to ensure they’re ready to participate during the survey period.
How to Get Involved
If your church hasn’t yet signed up for the 2026 National Church Life Survey, now is the perfect time.
Whether you’re a church leader coordinating your congregation or a church member completing the survey, every response contributes to a better understanding of the Australian Church and helps strengthen ministry into the future.
To find out more, register your church, or access resources, visit the National Church Life Survey website.