July 21 update: What to expect - overview of surveys

What to Expect in the 2026 NCLS: Overview of Surveys 

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Thank you for joining us in the 2026 National Church Life Survey! 
From July, participating churches are receiving regular updates from us with tips, encouragements and resources for the survey.
This week, we encourage your church leadership to select a person to complete your Church Activities Survey during August. Also, decide WHEN and HOW you will hold the Attender Survey in September or October.  

 

 

21 July, 2026

Dear participating church,

We are thrilled to see so many churches like yours preparing to run the National Church Life Survey (NCLS). Here's an outline of what to expect, with a quick overview of surveys, plus some helpful resources to assist you.


WHAT TO EXPECT: AN OVERVIEW OF SURVEYS

There are three surveys in the NCLS. First there is the Church Activities Survey, to be completed by one person during August. Then, Church Life Surveys for attenders, and Leader Surveys, can be completed during September or October, at a time that suits your church.

 

 

 

 

Church Activities Survey

One survey to be completed by a church leader or administrator. This survey captures the activities of local churches in their community.

Your church will receive a Church Activities Survey to be completed during August.  

 

 

Church Life Surveys for Attenders

Attender Surveys are to be completed by churchgoers during a worship service or activity. This survey assesses your church's heath and vitality.

Your church will receive a Survey Kit with Attender Surveys, for completion in September or October. 

Leader Surveys

Leader Surveys are for people in ministry/pastoral leadership roles. This survey assesses sustainable and effective leadership, as well as leader wellbeing.

Your Survey Kit will also contain Leader Surveys, for completion in September or October. 

 

TO DO

 

 

  • Decide on a date when your churchgoers will complete their Attender Surveys together in September or October.

 

Over the coming weeks, you will receive regular updates from us with tips, encouragements and resources for the survey. 

Need to see all the updates? You can find them all in one place online. Click here

 

 

TIPS AND RESOURCES

Find out more about the Church Activities Survey in time for August, and browse resources to help you prepare your church for Church Life Surveys in September or October.  

 

 

We are glad your church is joining in the 2026 NCLS! Our hope and prayer is that this reflective experience provides an effective way to strengthen your own church's health, as well as to shape future ministry in Australia. Watch out for our next update!

Yours faithfully,
Prof Ruth Powell

Executive Director, NCLS Research on behalf of the Board and team.