The report on women with non-English-speaking backgrounds (NESB) in the Australian labor force was prepared to review the experience and needs of this population in recent years and to examine the various available sources of information. The first section reviews the standard statistical sources and their research methodologies. The second and third sections use these quantitative data to examine recent trends in NESB women's labor force experience. One examines the main trends in demographic and educational patterns, unemployment and self-employment patterns, and employment-related training. The other looks at the situation of NESB women in the context of the 1990-92 recession, particularly trends in unemployment, the manufacturing industry, employment patterns related to ethnic group or nationality, and women's participation in national labor market programs. The fourth section considers the value of qualitative and community-based research used in addition to quantitative data. Report-related data, data summaries, and notes on methodological issues and a bibliography are appended. A companion volume summarizes findings on specific issues and makes recommendations for policy and action. (MSE) (Adjunct ERIC Clearinghouse on Literacy Education)