Why trans people need to be counted in the census

<p>The census is meant to reflect the country back to us – to give vital data on who makes up Australia. </p><p>But this week it’s become a political landmine for the federal government, who first cancelled questions on sexual orientation and gender identity, only to partially reverse that decision amid tense backlash. </p><p>But the question of data isn’t just academic. This debate is coming at a time when the Victorian coroner has specifically asked for more data on the transgender community following a number of young trans women taking their own lives.</p><p>Today, writer and co-editor of <em>Nothing to Hide: Voices of Trans and Gender Diverse Australia </em>Sam Elkin, on the government’s decision to exclude trans people from the census and why counting them could save lives.</p><p>And just a warning, today’s episode discusses suicide. Please take care while listening.</p><p><br /></p><p><strong>Socials: </strong>Stay in touch with us on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/7ampodcast">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/7ampodcast">Instagram</a></p><p><strong>Guest:</strong> Writer and co-editor of <em>Nothing to Hide: Voices of Trans and Gender Diverse Australia </em>Sam Elkin.</p><p>See <a href="https://omnystudio.com/listener">omnystudio.com/listener</a> for privacy information.</p>