The recognition of the importance of linguistic diversity led to UNESCO's decision to celebrate International Mother Language Day on 21 February every year throughout the world.
In Australia, a country of 21 million people, there are over 200 languages spoken in the community. (ABS)
The 2001 census indicated that 16% of the population spoke a language other than English at home. (ABS)
There are more than 60 different languages spoken by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians. (ABS)
"Yet a study published in 2000 showed that Australian chief executives were proficient in fewer languages than those of the 27 other countries surveyed, including the US, Britain and New Zealand." (Professor Michael Clyne)