The calibration process produces a different set of survey weights to the

previous estimation technique. Consequently, these techniques yield slightly

different estimates based on the same reported data. Investigations have shown
that there are no systematic differences in the estimates using the two methods,
so revisions to historical publications are not necessary.

In summary, the composite regression estimator has allowed the ABS to use
administrative tax data to continue to produce high quality quarterly Business
Indicator estimates while alleviating the burden on businesses.

For further information, please contact Eleanor Day and Jack Steel.

Improving Estimates of Aboriginal and Torres

Strait Islander Life Expectancies
The ABS continues to focus on improving the complex methodology used to
estimate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander life expectancies (see Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander life expectancy methodology, 2020–2022) in response
to an independent review in 2020 (see Independent review of the ABS'
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander life expectancy estimates).

Key inputs to calculating life expectancy are accurate data on the number of
deaths in a specified period and the estimated size of the population. Accuracy is
challenging for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander deaths which are under-
represented in data provided to the ABS by each state and territory Registry of
Births, Deaths, and Marriages. To improve representation, two adjustments are
applied to deaths based on data linkages between the Census and death
registrations, and between the Census and Post Enumeration Survey (PES). For
the calculation of 2020-2022 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander life
expectancies, the ABS enhanced these two adjustments to reduce bias related
to:

• death records that were unable to be linked to Census data

• age groups with small sample from the post enumeration survey.

The first adjustment is based on person record links between Census data and
death registrations in the year following Census night. These links provide
information on the propensity that a death reported with one of the three
categories of Indigenous status (Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, non-
Indigenous, not stated) is recorded with one of these status categories in the
Census. These propensities are used to adjust for under-representation of
Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status in death records.