Many Australians have difficulty reading a standard printed document. This may be for a variety of reasons:
- Learning difficulty, such as dyslexia
- Visual-processing difficulties
- English as a second language
- Age-related reading difficulty (ie. early dementia)
- Minimal formal education
- Mild intellectual disability
- Personal preference for a shorter, simpler document
Plain English is an important part of the concept of universal access - making information, services, events and venues accessible to as many people as possible.
Plain English makes a printed document easier to read and understand. It is more inclusive because it is clearer, uncluttered, and user-friendly.
A Plain English document should:
- Use simpler words
- Use short sentences and paragraphs
- Use point-form for main meanings
- Prioritise key points on a need-to-know basis
- Be specific and direct
- Avoid jargon
- Use examples when helpful
- Use a larger font
Adapted from Vision Australia's Plain English Guidelines