Respectfully asking people about their sexuality, gender, sex characteristics, relationships, bodies, pronouns and names can be an important part of affirming their identity. Collecting data in inappropriate ways can increase risk of discrimination, unsafe treatment or distress.

Choosing the best ways to ask questions in your research, service intake forms, or individual communication requires careful thought (get in touch if you’d like our advice). In general:

  • Think about why you’re asking, and what information is most relevant for you to know.

  • Ask inclusive questions that are respectful, relevant, and enable the person to share or not share information as they prefer.

  • Provide clear information about what is being recorded and why, who will have access to that information, and any limits of confidentiality.

Our document Key Principles for Data Collection about Transgender and Intersex Populations (2022) shares further guidance about what to consider.

Stats NZ sex and gender standards

Stats NZ recently published a new statistical standard for gender, sex, and variations of sex characteristics. We were part of the external advisory group for this review, and we hope that the new standard will support researchers and service providers with guidance about appropriate ways of collecting data about transgender and intersex people.

Stats NZ consulted the public about their proposed changes in mid-2020, and published a summary of public feedback.

We made a submission emphasising the importance of balancing the need for comprehensive data collection with the need to ensure the safety and dignity of transgender and intersex people.

Submission to Statistics New Zealand on the Sex and gender identity statistical standards: Consultation
(Word version)

Other resources on rainbow data collection

Intersex Data Collection: Your Guide to Question Design – best practice guidance from interACT in the US.

Beyond Binary Code - a tool to help businesses determine whether and how to collect gender-related data, and to create inclusive forms. Developed by Spark with input from OutLine Aotearoa.

PrivacyLive: Gender Affirming Data Collection - recording of a webinar discussion about gender diversity, privacy and data hosted by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner.