Cultural diversity

Language used at home

About this topic

Language used at home shows which languages people speak in their home life and whether English or another language is used most often. It is a key indicator of cultural diversity and language retention within communities.

This topic is useful for planning communication, multicultural services, and local engagement. It should be analysed together with proficiency in English and birthplace, because language alone does not show migration history or support needs.

Interpretation notes

  • The Census records the language used most often at home, so it does not capture every language a person can speak.
  • Language used at home is not a measure of English proficiency, literacy, or migration history on its own.

Key insight

In 2021, Pitjantjatjara was the most common language used at home among residents in Maralinga Tjarutja (AC), accounting for 69.6% (64 people). This share was higher than Regional SA (0.5%). Since 2016, the biggest change was in Pitjantjatjara, which increased by 55 people and 55.3 percentage points.

Section overview

Language used at home - Ranked by size

Maralinga Tjarutja (AC) - Total persons (Usual residence)

This table summarises language used at home for Maralinga Tjarutja (AC) in 2021 for persons, with comparison against Regional SA and change since 2016.

Language used at home - Ranked by size change

Absolute change in category counts between 2016 and 2021.

2016
2021

Pitjantjatjara

+55

+55.3pp

English

0

-7.5pp

Data table

Language used at home for Maralinga Tjarutja (AC). Language used at home - Ranked by size. 2021 and 2016 counts, percentages, and change compared with Regional SA.

Language used at home for Maralinga Tjarutja (AC). Language used at home - Ranked by size. 2021 and 2016 counts, percentages, and change compared with Regional SA.
Language used at home for Maralinga Tjarutja (AC). Language used at home - Ranked by size. 2021 and 2016 counts, percentages, and change compared with Regional SA.
Category20212016Change
Count%Regional SA%Count%Regional SA%Countpp
Pitjantjatjara6469.6%0.5%914.3%0.5%+55+55.3pp
English1516.3%87.7%1523.8%87.9%0-7.5pp
Total92100.0%100.0%63100.0%100.0%+290.0pp

Excludes languages spoken at home by fewer than 10 people.