Australia’s chance to comment on proposed changes to language classification

Australians can have their say on proposed changes to the Australian Standard Classification of Language (ASCL).                                                                                                    

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is continuing consultation on a major review of the ASCL to better reflect languages widely used in the Australian community. These updates help us collect high quality data, improving data analysis and decision making. 

The ASCL was first published in 1997, with minor reviews between 2005 and 2016. During this time, the Australian community has changed considerably and the ASCL needs to be updated to reflect these changes. 

This consultation is the public’s opportunity to comment on proposed changes to the ASCL. The proposed changes are based on analysis of 2011, 2016 and 2021 Census data, feedback from the first round of consultation and from other stakeholders. 

More detailed information of the review, including timing, is available on the ABS Consultation Hub.

The consultation will close on 13 December 2024.