People using another language at home

At the 2021 Census, People using another language at home across Australia was 22.3%. The share of people who use a language other than English at home.

Share of people who use a language other than English at home. It is calculated as a percentage of the relevant population or dwellings, so it can be compared fairly between large and small areas.

It is a direct marker of cultural and linguistic diversity and helps target translation, settlement and education services.

Across the 2,385 SA2 areas with data, People using another language at home ranges from 0.0% to 90.7%, with a typical (median) area at 12.4%. Most areas cluster toward the lower end, with a smaller number of much higher areas stretching the range.

Yes — People using another language at home is measured consistently enough to compare across the 2011, 2016 and 2021 Censuses, so the trend over time is meaningful. Nationally it has risen from 18.2% in 2011 to 22.3% in 2021.

Use the interactive map to compare People using another language at home down to block (sa1) and statistical area 2 (sa2) level, or search any suburb, postcode or council area to see its value in context against state and national figures.