Use plain language to decolonise government writing

Decolonisation sounds like a complex idea.

But in reality, it’s simple. It means taking deliberate steps to correct something that has historically favoured Western and colonial worldviews. For government writing in Australia, this could mean you only share information:

• in English

• on government channels

• at a year 12 level of reading or higher.

When you work in the public sector, you serve every person in the community. Not just people who look, sound and act the same as you.

Writing in plain language can help you reach the most people. It is easier to translate. It includes people with disability, older people, people with low literacy and young people.

It is a simple, but radical change to the way we typically write. It is an intentional way to ensure people understand the information, services, policies and changes that will impact their lives.

Why plain language is an act of decolonisation

Plain language is an international style of writing. It helps make information easy to find, understand and use.

This is particularly important for information from the government. Often, we need that information to make important decisions about our lives. This includes how to:

• vote

• run a business

• enrol a child in school

• get a drivers licence

• apply for grants and funding.

If you need to read complex information to do these things, you exclude many people in the community from access. This includes multicultural and First Nations people.

These communities are more likely to have experienced racism, negligence and violence from the government. They may speak more than one language. They may be newly arrived in Australia and unsure where to get information from. They may not have digital access. This creates multiple barriers.

If our communication does not meet their needs, we show them that they are not a priority. This is a frustrating experience. And it disadvantages even the average Australian who reads and writes at a year 8 level.

When our writing cannot be understood by most people, we reinforce the idea that government information is for the privileged few.

How to start today

You can begin to decolonise your writing today. Some simple changes you can make are to:

• use everyday words

• reduce jargon

• avoid acronyms

• write shorter sentences.

At Plain Language Matters, we can work with you to make lasting change to the way your organisation gives the community information. We work with you to communicate in a way that best meets the needs of your audience.

We can transform your documents, edit your copy and empower your teams with training. This can help you reach more people, and build trust.

Email us to get started at info@plainlanguagematters.org