NCLS Research is a world leader in research focused on connecting Christian churches, schools and agencies with their communities. Decades of rigorous and thoughtful research has examined wellbeing, spirituality, effective leadership and church health. Our vision is for thriving Christian communities understanding their role and mission within a changing society.
Announcing the 2026 NCLS!
The 2026 National Church Life Survey will take place across Australian churches this year. Hundreds of thousands of voices will contribute to the most comprehensive view of church life in the world.
Schools:
The Student Spiritual Life Survey is available now and for 2026!
Local Churches:
A suite of survey tools available at any time
Learn More View Church Life Profile
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Latest Research Findings
Research reveals Australian Christians are ready for climate action
The Climate Action Survey by NCLS Research highlights that many Christians are not just concerned, but also that they are already taking action. Almost all survey participants reported undertaking some sort of consumer action to try and address climate change. Nine in ten respondents reported steps such as reducing energy use or installing solar, and seven in ten have engaged in civic actions like voting or advocacy.
Seven in ten students in faith-based schools believe in God or some sort of spirit or life force
An initial snapshot of results show that 72% of high school students in faith-based schools say they believe in God or some sort of spirit or life force. How many believe in a personal 'God'? Read the article to find out.
Half of students in faith-based schools believe Jesus was God in human form
Initial results from the Student Spiritual Life Survey by NCLS Research reveal that around half of students surveyed (49%) say they believe Jesus Christ to be God in human form.
Six in ten students in faith-based schools feel they are familiar with Christian teachings
Of the nearly 14,461 Australian students who completed the Student Spiritual Life Survey, some 63% said they were familiar with the Christian faith.
Latest News and Features
NCLS Research is pleased to announce that the 2026 National Church Life Survey is on from August to October!
Conversations on Hope webinar
Watch now for the latest insights on Australians and hope
How hopeful are Australians? Watch this webinar to find out!
"Conversations on Hope" features latest research insights from the Australian Community Survey by NCLS Research as well as reflections by Tearfund and stories from practitioners.
Announcing the 2026 National Church Life Survey
Australian churches are invited to take part in the eight nationwide survey of churchgoers
The 2026 National Church Life Survey will take place across Australian churches in late 2026, the same year as the National Census.
Hundreds of thousands of voices will contribute to the most comprehensive view of church life in the world, in the eighth nationwide survey of churchgoers – the 2026 NCLS.
Student Spiritual Life Survey
A survey to understand the spiritual beliefs, attitudes and practices of your students and the impact of your school
Understand the spiritual beliefs, attitudes and practices of your students and the impact of your school activities on their faith.
Church Survey Tools
Easy to use survey tools to assess church health, leadership development and local community connections
NCLS Research provides a range of survey tools, that are easy to use and researcher designed, to provide insights into church life, leadership and the local community, to inform and shape modern day ministry.
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