Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD)

People from a range of cultural, ethnic, language and religious backgrounds. The NDIS aims to be accessible to CALD communities.

What it means

Culturally and linguistically diverse, often shortened to CALD, is a term used to describe people from a wide range of cultural, ethnic, religious and language backgrounds. It recognises that Australia is home to many communities with different traditions, beliefs, values and languages, and that people's backgrounds can shape how they understand disability and the kinds of support they feel comfortable with.

A person from a CALD background might speak a language other than English at home, follow particular cultural or religious practices, or have arrived in Australia as a migrant or refugee. The term covers a very broad group of people, and everyone's needs and preferences are different.

In practice

The NDIS aims to be accessible and responsive to people from CALD communities. This can include providing interpreters, offering translated information, and working towards supports that are culturally appropriate and respectful of a person's background and beliefs.

If you or a family member come from a CALD background, it helps to share what matters to you during planning. You might mention the language you are most comfortable using, whether you would like an interpreter, or cultural or religious considerations that affect the supports you want. Choosing providers and workers who understand your culture, or who speak your language, can make supports feel more comfortable and effective. Being open about your preferences helps the NDIA and providers respond in a way that suits you.

A real example

For example, Ahmed recently arrived in Australia and feels most comfortable speaking Arabic. During his planning conversation he asks for an interpreter, and his planner arranges translated information so his family can read it together. Ahmed also chooses a support worker who understands his cultural and religious practices, which helps him feel respected and at ease.

Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) — FAQs

What does CALD mean?
CALD stands for culturally and linguistically diverse. It describes people from a wide range of cultural, ethnic, religious and language backgrounds. This can include people who speak a language other than English, follow particular cultural or religious practices, or have migrated to Australia. It is a broad term, and each person within these communities has their own individual needs and preferences.
Can I get an interpreter for NDIS conversations?
Yes. Interpreters can be available so you can take part in NDIS-related conversations, such as planning meetings or discussions with providers, in the language you are most comfortable using. Let the NDIA or your provider know your preferred language and that you would like an interpreter, ideally before your appointment, so it can be arranged in advance.
Is NDIS information available in other languages?
Translated information can be available to help people from CALD backgrounds understand the NDIS. If you would find it easier to read or discuss information in another language, ask the NDIA or your provider what is available. Sharing your language preference helps them give you information in a way you can understand and share with your family.
Can I choose supports that suit my culture?
Yes. You can look for providers and workers who understand your culture, share your language, or respect your religious practices. Culturally appropriate supports can feel more comfortable and work better for you. During planning and when choosing providers, explain what matters to you, so the supports you receive fit with your background and beliefs.
How do I raise cultural needs in planning?
Share your preferences during your planning conversation. You might mention your preferred language, whether you would like an interpreter, and any cultural or religious considerations that affect the supports you want. Being open about what matters to you helps the NDIA understand your situation and consider supports that are respectful of your background and suited to your goals.

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