An audit of NSW legislation and policy on the government’s public communications in languages other than English

This article reports a 2019–2021 audit of the framework NSW government's decisions about their public communications in languages other than English (NSW is an Australian state). It found dearth legislation or policy language government communications, but we present typology ways which law seeks to regulate choice between individuals, non-government entities, and staff. We then discuss shortfalls this decision-making framework, interrogating NSW's statutory Multicultural Principle linguistic diversity haphazard that requires communication be considered relation likelihood intended audience will understand certain communications. raise concerns whether lack accountability for non-compliance leaving majority reliant on informal/reactionary suited equitably fulfilling needs public. The closes by arguing consistent clear guide would enable more readily meet communicative needs. thus propose paths reform as well directions further research aimed at improving efficiency.