Frequently asked questions
What is the World Values Survey?
The World Values Survey 2012 forms part of an important long-term, world-wide study of values, and their impact on social and political life. These surveys show pervasive changes in what people want out of life and what they believe. The World Values Survey began in 1985 and now covers 97 countries, representing almost 90 percent of the world’s population.
Why is the survey conducted?
The World Values Survey is a worldwide investigation of socio-cultural and political change. It is conducted by a network of social scientists at leading universities all around world.
The World Values series of surveys aim to monitor values and cultural changes around the world. These surveys provide important long-term information on: happiness, development, freedom and other important values across the globe.
Who is conducting the survey in Australia?
In Australia the Social Research Centre Pty Ltd, a national social research company, is conducting the World Values Survey on The Australian National University's behalf.
How did you get my contact details?
The Australian Electoral Commission has provided name and address information for this project in conformity with Item 3 of section 90B(4) of the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918. The information has been provided by the AEC on a confidential basis and may not be forwarded on or sold or otherwise disclosed or used for any purpose other than to contact participants for this project. You were chosen from a scientifically designed random sample of voters listed on the Electoral Roll.
When is the survey conducted and how do I complete it?
Fieldwork for the survey will be conducted from July 25, 2012 to September 13, 2012.
A personalised questionnaire booklet is mailed out to participants at the beginning of fieldwork. The covering letter includes a link to the online questionnaire along with a unique password and username, in case participants would like to complete the survey online.
If you choose to participate, you can complete the survey online. Alternatively you can complete and return the questionnaire booklet and send it back to us in the reply-paid envelope.
Those who have not completed the survey after a week are sent a reminder card mailing to encourage completion. Those who have not completed the survey after around 2 weeks are sent an additional questionnaire booklet with a reply paid envelope. After around two more weeks, those who have not completed the survey yet are sent a final reminder letter.
How long is the survey?
The survey should take around half an hour to complete and your participation is entirely voluntary.
Are my answers confidential?
Yes, your privacy is assured. Your contact details and survey responses will remain confidential. The information you provide will not be used for any other purpose. Only group responses, not your individual responses, are reported. All names and addresses will be deleted from the survey database at the end of the project.
Do I get any incentives for completing the survey?
Yes, as a thankyou for completing the survey, you will go into the draw for a chance to win one of four prizes worth $500 each. The prizes will be drawn on September 14, 2012. Prize winners will be notified in writing and published in the Australian newspaper on September 21, 2012. Please make sure you complete the survey by no later than September 13, 2012. View the terms and conditions.