The collection of data is essential for effective research and policy. The approved method of data collection in relation to Indigenous victims of crime is currently inconsistently adhered to across Australia. As a result, much of the data available is unreliable and fragmented. This article argues that nationwide changes to the way in which the Indigenous status of victims is recorded would have a significant impact on the quality of research and policy development concerning the specific experience of Indigenous victims. A research project run by the Indigenous Law Centre draws attention to these issues. The ‘Standard Indigenous Question’ and the role it plays in facilitating consistent data collection is explained. The differences in Indigenous data where the information collected concerns offenders rather than victims, and in the context of sexual assault offences, are outlined.