LANGUAGE - QUESTIONS 16 & 17
WHY ARE THEY ASKED?
Australia's main language is English. However, past Censuses have shown that nearly 3 million Australians spoke a language other than English at home.
Knowing which other languages are spoken and how well English is spoken, makes it easier to plan for English teaching programs and for translation and interpreter services.
HOW TO ANSWER
Q16 If the person speaks only English at home, mark 'No, English only', even if they can speak another language.
AUSLAN and other sign languages should be included. Write in the name of the sign language if it applies to the home.
For people who cannot speak, write 'NOT ABLE TO SPEAK' in the ‘Other - please specify’ box for Q16, and leave Q17 blank.
If you live alone, answer Q16 with the language you usually speak to visitors in your home.
For children too young to speak, write 'NOT ABLE TO SPEAK' in the ‘Other - please specify’ box for Q16, and leave Q17 blank.
Snippet - "Australia is a multicultural society. In 2001 approximately one in five people were born overseas or spoke a language other than English at home."
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