Plain Language Act
The Plain Language Act requires all public service agencies and crown agents to use plain language. For everyone else, plain language is not required but is highly recommended.
The Act
The Plain Language Act came into effect on . From this date, all new or significantly revised content must use plain language. A significant revision is anything more than minor changes to the content.
Plain Language Act — New Zealand Legislation
Agencies are required to take steps to support their employees to use plain language.
Plain Language Act : Guidance for agencies — Te Kawa Mataaho
Documents that must use plain language
The Plain Language Act applies to content in English that is intended for the general public — rather than a specific person. It includes content that is in print or online.
Content must be in plain language if it’s:
- about government help and how to access it – for example, how to apply for a benefit
- about requirements or obligations — for example, how to pay tax
- for public education campaigns — for example, how to enrol to vote.
Note: The Plain Language Act does not stop organisations from using te reo Māori in their documents.
Why and how to use plain language
Plain language is about more than compliance — it shows a commitment to making it easy to deal with government.
Using plain language helps people quickly understand and use your information.
It's a writing approach you can apply every day.
Utility links and page information
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