What Is CALD? Understanding Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Communities in Australia (2025 Update)
Australia is a proud multicultural nation, shaped by waves of migration from around the globe. As of the 2021 Census, nearly 28% of Australians were born overseas, and more than one in five people (22.3%) spoke a language other than English at home. These figures highlight the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of the country and why certified document translations matter for visa and immigration purposes.
A term commonly used in government and public service circles to describe this diversity is CALD, short for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse. But what exactly does CALD mean? How is it used, and is it still appropriate in today’s Australia?
In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we unpack the term CALD, its history, relevance, criticisms, and its role in translation practices.
What Does CALD Mean?
CALD refers to individuals or communities that come from non-Anglo-Celtic cultural or linguistic backgrounds. In most Australian contexts, this includes people who speak a language other than English, or who were born in countries outside the main English-speaking countries as classified by the ABS — namely:
- Australia
- Canada
- Republic of Ireland
- New Zealand
- South Africa
- United Kingdom
- United States
CALD is widely used in healthcare, education, government services, and community support sectors. It helps organisations plan services and policies to support Australians from different cultural backgrounds.
Who Is Considered CALD?
The term generally applies to individuals or groups with:
- Different languages (spoken at home or preferred for communication)
- Distinct ethnic or national identities
- Cultural practices, traditions, or religions that differ from the mainstream
- Migration or refugee experiences
CALD is a broad and flexible term, often criticised for being too broad. For example, a newly arrived Syrian refugee and a fourth-generation Chinese-Australian might both fall under the CALD umbrella, though their lived experiences are vastly different.
A Brief History of CALD in Australia
- Post-WWII Migration: Australia welcomed European migrants, beginning its multicultural transformation.
- 1970s: The government formally adopted multiculturalism. CALD emerged as a policy tool to address the needs of non-English-speaking migrants.
- 1990s to Present: Immigration from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East surged, solidifying CALD as a standard term in public discourse.
CALD in Government and Public Policy
The term is entrenched in official language. The Australian Government Style Manual still acknowledges and accepts CALD but advises caution in how it is used. Key recommendations include:
- Use “CALD” only for internal or professional audiences.
- Prefer community-specific terms when addressing the public (e.g., “Korean-Australian community” instead of “CALD communities”).
- Focus on inclusive language and individual experiences, not just categories.
Criticisms of the CALD Label
Despite its policy usefulness, the CALD label is not without issues.
1. Overgeneralisation
Lumping together diverse communities under one label can obscure unique needs. A Filipino-Australian and a Sudanese-Australian may face very different barriers and cultural contexts.
2. Cultural Exclusion
By setting CALD in contrast to “mainstream” (Anglo-Celtic) Australians, the term can imply that white Australians are not culturally diverse, which is inaccurate and exclusionary.
3. Lack of Self-Identification
Most Australians from migrant backgrounds do not refer to themselves as “CALD.” Instead, they identify based on ethnicity, nationality, or language group.
How to Communicate Effectively with CALD Communities
If you work in government, education, health, or community services, here are strategies to improve your engagement:
✔️ Use Clear, Simple Language
Avoid idioms, jargon, and metaphors. Use Plain English or Easy English to enhance understanding.
✔️ Translate Key Information
Offer documents, videos, and signage in the community’s first language. Professional translation and interpreter services are critical.
✔️ Include CALD Voices in Decisions
Consult and co-design services with community leaders or representatives.
✔️ Provide Cultural Competency Training
Equip your team to understand cultural practices, communication styles, and sensitivities.
What Is Community Translation?
Community translation refers to the translation of materials aimed at improving access to services and information for people with low English proficiency. Typical clients include:
- Government departments and agencies
- Local councils
- Non-profit organisations
- Advocacy groups and community services
Translated materials often include:
- Health information
- Legal rights and responsibilities
- Public safety campaigns
- Education and employment guides
Top 10 Languages Spoken in Australia (2021 Census)
| Rank | Language | Number of Speakers |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mandarin | 685,268 |
| 2 | Arabic | 367,154 |
| 3 | Vietnamese | 320,760 |
| 4 | Cantonese | 295,292 |
| 5 | Punjabi | 239,033 |
| 6 | Greek | 229,643 |
| 7 | Italian | 228,042 |
| 8 | Tagalog/Filipino | 199,662 |
| 9 | Hindi | 175,260 |
| 10 | Spanish | 143,709 |
These figures emphasise the linguistic diversity that community services must be prepared to support.
Plain Language vs Easy English: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Plain Language | Easy English |
|---|---|---|
| Audience | General public with basic literacy | Low-literacy readers, including CALD groups |
| Grammar | Clear, concise, simple | Very simplified grammar and sentence structure |
| Vocabulary | Common words, no jargon | Everyday words, visual aids often included |
| Layout & Design | User-friendly layout | Large fonts, lots of white space, symbols |
| Best For | Websites, policies, public communications | Disability services, migrant outreach |
Both approaches are essential for making government services accessible and inclusive.
Should We Still Use CALD?
In 2025, CALD remains a useful but imperfect term. When used with care and clarity, it helps to shape policies and services that address the barriers faced by multicultural Australians.
However, when engaging directly with communities, it is better to use more specific, respectful language. Speak to the person, not their difference.
Final Thoughts
Australia’s cultural fabric is rich, complex, and constantly evolving. Recognising the strengths and challenges within Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities is the first step to building a more inclusive, equitable society.
Whether you work in government, healthcare, education, or local business, understanding the modern use of CALD helps ensure your communication is effective, respectful, and inclusive.
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