About the 2026 NCLS
The 2026 National Church Life Survey will take place across Australian churches from August to October 2026. Hundreds of thousands of voices will contribute to the most comprehensive view of church life in the world. Australian churches across more than 20 denominations are expected to take part.
"The last NCLS was during COVID-19, which makes it so important to check across diverse contexts about what is actually happening in church life. We will continue our mission to provide credible research, to identify signs of hope and nurture life. We are also keen to partner with others to try innovative approaches to this national project”.
~Dr Ruth Powell, Director NCLS Research
The LIFE of the Australian Church
As churches respond to social changes, it is more important than ever to have an informed approach to modern day ministry. For 35 years, the National Church Life Survey has tracked the LIFE of the Australian Church, the lives and hopes of people who attend churches all around the country.
‘Life to the full’ is the philosophy behind the survey, aiming to encouraging fullness of vitality in churches, leaders and communities.
Life in Churches
The NCLS enables churches to review their health and vitality, provides an evidence base to make wise decisions and inspire new directions for the future.
Life in Leadership
The NCLS examines the practices of church leaders and provides insights into how they can be effective and sustainable; developing a culture of empowering leadership.
Life in Communities
The NCLS recognises the life and times of Australians, how they approach matters of faith; and provides tools so churches and communities can better connect.
The 2026 NCLS survey project
The project incorporates around:
- 20+ denominations
- Nine languages
- Thousands of local churches
- Tens of thousands of local leaders in active church ministry
- Hundreds of thousands of church attenders
Previous National Church Life Surveys have been held in 1991, 1996, 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016 and 2021. The 2026 NCLS heralds the 35 year anniversary of the survey. NCLS Research is hoping to build on previous strengths of the National Church Life Survey, as well as introduce some innovations.
"We will ask questions to help map the Australian church landscape, and as previously, will ask local churches questions to help them reflect on their own health and vitality. We hope to meet the needs of many parts of the church by gathering information that is helpful for their mission objectives."
~Dr Ruth Powell, Director NCLS Research
