Although Australia is officially an English-speaking country, English is not the home language in more than 20% of Australian families. 

Most immigrants shift to using English as their first language (known as L1) over time. However, it happens more slowly for some cultures and languages. Some immigrant families may speak English as their second language (L2) for 2 or 3 generations. The 2016 Census found significant rates of low English proficiency in 5 of the major language groups in Australia. (These figures are based on self-reporting, so they may be an underestimate.) The percentage of people reporting low English proficiency in these groups was:

• Korean – 32%

• Vietnamese – 31%

• Mandarin – 26%

• Cantonese – 25%

• Arabic – 16%. 

Special strategies are needed to communicate and engage with groups that have lower average levels of English competency. This could involve translating public documents into other languages, or ensuring that English information is presented at readability levels suitable for L2 readers. See Multicultural audiences for guidance on how to ensure accurate translations.