NCLS Research is a world leader in research focused on connecting churches and their communities. Decades of rigorous and thoughtful research has examined wellbeing, spirituality and church health. Our vision is for thriving churches with deepening understanding of their role and mission within a changing society.
Latest News and Features
2021 NCLS Summary Profiles out now
First results for churches who took part in the 2021 NCLS
The first release of results is available for participating churches from April 2022. The Summary Profile contains highlights of a church's survey results. Local churches can view their Summary Profile using their Profile Number online.
‘No religion’ part of ongoing trend, but not whole story
ABS release first Census results
The latest results from the 2021 national Census, which show an increase in Australians ticking the ‘no religion’ box, come as no surprise to researchers at NCLS Research.
This fresh data from the Bureau of Statistics (ABS 2021) suggests religious affiliation is on the decline. But we say there is more to the story.
Young people most frequent attenders at religious services
Insights from the 2021 Australian Community Survey
As part of our research into Australian community trends, we were interested to see how age affected Australians’ attendance at religious services. Interestingly, results reveal that the highest proportion of any age group attending religious services was found in young people.
Webinar: Who's in the Pews 22nd Sept
Who really goes to church today.. and what that means for ministry and mission.
This webinar will present the latest demographic picture of Australian churchgoers. It is the first release of findings from the 2021 NCLS, so don't miss out!
Considering the disruption to church life over the last few years, gaining an accurate picture of who really goes to church today will inform every church leader in a COVID changed world.
First results from the 2021 NCLS have been released to churches.
Summary Profiles are out now!
More information View your Summary Profile
Research Findings
What Australians really think about Jesus and the church today
Did Jesus exist? What do Australians think? View our free webinar to gain in-depth insights about the views of Australians on Jesus and the Christian Church, from our latest Australian Community Survey.
‘No religion’ part of ongoing trend, but not whole story
The latest results from the 2021 national Census, which show an increase in Australians ticking the ‘no religion’ box, come as no surprise to researchers at NCLS Research. This fresh data from the Bureau of Statistics (ABS 2021) suggests religious affiliation is on the decline. But we say there is more to the story.
What roles should churches play in society?
Depending on who you speak with, the church’s impact on society is either good, bad, or somewhere in the middle. The team at NCLS Research regularly explore what Australians think about religion and the role of religious organisations in society, including churches. We also ask Australians for their opinions on what kinds of things churches should be doing in the community.
Middle aged Australians most sceptical about Jesus
Age differences are apparent in Australians' views of Jesus and their belief in his divinity and resurrection from the dead. NCLS Research has discovered that while half of Australians acknowledge Christ’s existence as a human in history, even less see him as divine. And there are some curious differences between the generations. Middle aged Australians, aged 50 to 64, are least likely to believe in Jesus' divinity or resurrection.
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