Editorial Standards

Data-First Approach

RefDat content is built around data, not marketing. We start with official government datasets, process them transparently, and then add editorial context. We never invent data or present marketing claims as facts.

Fact-Checking Process

All RefDat content is fact-checked against source data before publication. Our process includes:

• Verification against original data sources (ABS, BOM, NDIS, etc.)
• Cross-referencing multiple independent sources where available
• Expert review by subject matter specialists
• Testing of calculations and derived statistics

Corrections Policy

RefDat takes accuracy seriously. If you find an error, please contact corrections@refdat.com with details. We will investigate, correct errors promptly, and publish corrections notices on affected pages.

Update Frequency

RefDat pages are updated when source data changes:

• Suburb pages: Updated every 5 years with new Census data
• Weather data: Updated daily for recent observations, weekly for climate analyses
• NDIS data: Updated quarterly when Data Institute releases new reports
• Product reviews: Updated weekly with new price and review data

Independence

RefDat is independent of government, advertisers, and commercial interests. We don't accept sponsored content, paid listings, or preferential treatment. Our only revenue is Google AdSense advertising.

What RefDat Does NOT Provide

RefDat provides reference data only. We do NOT provide:

• Medical or health advice
• Financial or investment advice
• Legal advice
• Personal recommendations

RefDat articles are educational. For medical, financial, or legal matters, consult qualified professionals.

Data Accuracy Commitments

RefDat commits to:

• Using official government sources whenever possible
• Documenting all data processing steps
• Publishing data source credits and licences
• Correcting errors promptly when identified
• Maintaining version history for major updates

Transparency in Methodology

Every RefDat tool has a documented methodology page explaining how data was collected, processed, and presented. We believe readers should understand our methods.

Reader Feedback

Have a question about our standards? Contact us to discuss our editorial approach, data quality, or methodologies.