Language used at home (LANP)

This variable shows which language a person uses at home. 

All persons 

Language used at home (LANP) is classified using the Australian Standard Classification of Languages (ASCL) . In 2025, the ASCL underwent significant review. Details of the review and changes to the classification can be found in the ASCL. 

The categories are listed in groups below. 

Number of categories:  

• two-digit: 19 
• four-digit: 62 
• six-digit: 126 
• eight-digit: 568 

See Understanding supplementary codes for more information.  

This variable is derived from responses to the main language used at home question. Respondents may record their language by selecting a mark box or by entering a written response. Where more than one language is selected, or both a mark box and a written response are provided, only the first response recorded on the form is coded.  

Most responses are coded automatically from the mark box selections. Written responses are coded using a combination of automated reading and coding processes. Responses that cannot be coded or derived automatically are subject to manual coding. 

Where a response does not match an entry in the ASCL, it is coded as ‘Inadequately described’. 

Questions about languages spoken were first included in the 1933 Census. They were not asked again until the 1976 Census. A question on language has been included in every Census since. 

In 2025, ASCL used to code responses for this variable was significantly updated.  

In 2026, the revised ASCL was used to code Census data for the first time.  

The order of response categories for the question on the 2026 Census form was also updated to reflect the most common answers from the 2021 Census: 

• 'Italian' was replaced by 'Punjabi'. 
• 'Vietnamese' changed from fifth to fourth position.  
• 'Cantonese' changed from fourth to fifth position. 

The order of response categories is updated in this way each Census cycle.