Photo: Dominic Kurniawan Suryaputra (Unsplash License)
Almost everyone in Australia speaks English, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages are spoken and being revived in communities across the country. Β· 2 writing systems
Language of Australia
Australia is a big and colorful country where English is the main language everyone speaks. But did you know there are also many Aboriginal languages? These special languages have been used for thousands of years by the first people of Australia. Exploring these languages can show us exciting stories about the land and its original cultures!
Test Your Knowledge
About the Script
In Australia, English is the main language, and it sounds different from American or British English because of its famous accent. Australia also has hundreds of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages, like Kaurna in Adelaide, some now being brought back to life.
Script Explorer
Australian English
Aussie English uses the same alphabet as other English, but the way words sound is famous! These 'how Aussies say it' hints show the big vowel changes.
Kaurna
Kaurna is the language of the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains in South Australia. It is a 'sleeping' language being brought back to life, and these greetings are used in schools and at events today.
Phrase Cards
Fun Fact
Australia has over 250 Indigenous languages, but many are now endangered.
Fun Fact
Aussie English has a unique accent with distinctive vowel sounds.
Cultural Note
Language in Australia reflects its history of immigration and indigenous culture.
Vocabulary
Did you know that while English is the main language in both the USA and Australia, some words and pronunciations are quite different?
