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Perth’s linguistic and religious diversity reflects the city’s dynamic multicultural identity, according to the 2021 census. A significant 74% of Perth residents speak only English at home, but the city is also home to a variety of other languages, with Mandarin (2.3%), Italian (1.1%), and Vietnamese (1.0%) being among the most common non-English languages spoken. Punjabi and Cantonese also make up a notable portion of the city's linguistic landscape, highlighting the broad range of cultural influences shaping Perth today.
In terms of religion, Perth is marked by diversity, with 41.8% of the population reporting no religious affiliation, a higher percentage than the national average of 38.4%. This is a significant shift from historical figures, such as in 1911 when only 0.4% of Australians identified as non-religious. The Catholic Church remains the largest Christian denomination in Perth, with 19.5% of the population identifying as Catholic. The city is home to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Perth, as well as over 2,000 members of the Personal Ordinariate of Our Lady of the Southern Cross.
Anglicanism is another major Christian presence in the city, with 9.9% of the population identifying as Anglicans. Perth is the seat of the Anglican Diocese of Perth, continuing its religious influence. Beyond Christianity, Perth hosts sizable Buddhist and Muslim communities, each with over 50,000 adherents. The Dhammasara Nuns Monastery in Gidgengannup is a prominent center for Buddhism, and the city’s Muslim population is an integral part of Perth's cultural fabric.
Other religious communities in Perth include the Hindu community, which has seen significant growth, with over 49,000 adherents. The celebration of Diwali, for example, draws thousands to the city each year. Hindu temples are spread across various suburbs, including Canning Vale and Anketell, adding to the city's rich cultural diversity.
Perth also has one of Australia’s largest Jewish communities, with approximately 6,331 people identifying as Jewish, according to the 2021 census. However, local estimates put the Jewish population closer to 10,000, with institutions such as the Perth Hebrew Congregation and Temple David serving as centers for the community. Other religious minorities include the Baháʼí community (2,178 members), Mormons (4,719), and adherents of the Uniting Church in Australia (31,000 members).
Overall, Perth's population is characterized by its rich diversity, both linguistically and religiously, making it a vibrant, multicultural city with a dynamic mix of traditions and beliefs.