Plain English Foundation
Two lion clubs play together on the grass in their fenced enclosure while an adult lion reclines nearby
13 December 2022
7 min read

Worst Words of 2022

When 5 lions escaped their exhibit last month, the zoo released a statement blaming an 'integrity issue' for the breach. This was just one example of spin that caught our eye in this year's round-up of the worst public language.

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24 November 2022
3 min read

Keep it short and simple

So you want to writing in plain English, but you're not sure where to start? One of the most effective things you can do is replace complex words and phrases with a simpler, shorter alternative.

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Five coloured sticky notes pinned to a corkboard and the top note reads 'Top tips'.
24 November 2022
2 min read

10 top tips for plain English

Our expert trainers and editors share their top tips to help you communicate clearly in all your writing.

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A selection of 8 brightly coloured report covers representing projects that the editing team has worked on.
7 November 2022
5 min read

Editing showcase

Our editors have brought their plain language skills to many fascinating and influential projects. Here we share links to a handful that are available online, so you can see how we have transformed content across a range of genres and sectors.

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A lawyer in a suit signs a document while consulting a large reference book. On the desk are scales and a gavel.
21 October 2022
1 min read

NZ passes new plain language law

We're thrilled to hear that New Zealand passed the plain language bill today. One MP said the bill is about 'having language that everyone and anyone can understand.' We couldn't agree more.

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A sound engineer adjusts knobs and buttons on a large mixing console.
5 October 2022
2 min read

A plain English summary for MusicNSW

We worked with MusicNSW to create a plain English summary of the Raising Their Voices report. It presents important new research into sexism and discrimination in Australia's music industry and makes the case for some big, bold changes!

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A person wearing a medical mask, gloves and protective suit holds their hands up as a signal to stop.
15 December 2021
6 min read

Worst Words of 2021

2021 was another year dominated by COVID-19, and it generated a whole new list of words we didn't know we needed, including ‘centres for national resilience’.

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An older couple look at information about life insurance on their laptop.
9 June 2021
3 min read

A new Life Insurance Code of Practice

The Financial Services Council commissioned us to overhaul the Life Insurance Code of Practice. We created a new plain English document with big improvements in readability, usability and accessibility.

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A group of smiling people stand in a bar, chatting and drinking beer.
22 December 2020
4 min read

Worst Words of 2020

2020 was the year of COVID-19, and it generated some less than welcome words. The South Australia Government eased some coronavirus restrictions and allowed people in bars to drink while standing up… But then they dubbed this ‘vertical consumption‘.

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A White House podium flanked by two United States flags.
22 December 2020
3 min read

Worst Words of the Decade

We've taken a look back at the annual Worst Words winners from 2010-2020 to select the Worst Words of the Decade, and there was a clear winner.

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