AEDC 2025 Data Dictionary

This Data Dictionary provides a complete reference to the variables contained in the Australian Early Development Census (AEDC), and covers:

• changes since 2009 (Cycle 1), focusing on domain scores calculation and measures of vulnerability
• the data collection process
• descriptions of the AEDC variables to guide data users in the use and analysis of AEDC data.

The Data Dictionary is intended to be read in conjunction with the AEDC Data Guidelines and other relevant information for AEDC data users.

AEDC data applicants are encouraged to read the Data Dictionary alongside the:

• Data Dictionary Reference Tables
• SEIFA Reference Tables, and the
• AEDC Update to PHN and LGAPublic, SA2Public and SA3Public variables.