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, English was the most common language used at home among residents in Thorndale, accounting for 85.2% (115 people). This share was lower than Southern Downs (R) (88.1%).

Section overview

Language used at home - Ranked by size

Thorndale - Total persons (Usual residence)

This table summarises language used at home for Thorndale in 2021 for persons, with comparison against Southern Downs (R) and change since 2016.

Language used at home - Ranked by size snapshot

2021 distribution by category for Thorndale, with comparison markers for Southern Downs (R).

Thorndale
Southern Downs (R)

English

2021 count

115

% of total

85.2%

Change from 2016

-

Not stated

2021 count

16

% of total

11.9%

Change from 2016

-

Data table

Language used at home for Thorndale. Language used at home - Ranked by size. 2021 and 2016 counts, percentages, and change compared with Southern Downs (R).

Language used at home for Thorndale. Language used at home - Ranked by size. 2021 and 2016 counts, percentages, and change compared with Southern Downs (R).
Language used at home for Thorndale. Language used at home - Ranked by size. 2021 and 2016 counts, percentages, and change compared with Southern Downs (R).
Category20212016Change
Count%Southern Downs (R)%Count%Southern Downs (R)%Countpp
English11585.2%88.1%--89.6%--
Not stated1611.9%7.6%--6.1%--
Total135100.0%100.0%--100.0%--

Excludes languages spoken at home by fewer than 10 people.