Submission to the Plain Language Act Repeal Bill - Press Release

People First NZ Ngā Tāngata Tuatahi made a submission opposing the Plain Language Act Repeal Bill. We believe that removing the legislation would harm accessibility for disabled people and rights to clear and understandable information.

As a Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO) run by and for people with learning disability, People First NZ highlighted the critical role of accessible communication tools like Easy Read, which are supported by plain language principles.

Repealing the Plain Language Act could mean government information becomes too complicated and inaccessible.

People First NZ members from around the country called the move to repeal the Act “a step backwards.” One member asked, “Why do you (government) want to go back to the system where we don’t understand what’s going on?”

People First New Zealand believes that plain language is very important. It helps people with learning disability:

• understand information
• make choices
• be part of their community.
  

Taking away the Plain Language Act would make things harder for people who need information to be clear and easy to read.

People First NZ wants the Plain Language Act to stay and to keep using plain language guidelines developed by the Public Service Commission.

This will make sure everyone in New Zealand gets information they can understand and has a fair chance to speak up and be included.


Link to download the full People First NZ Submission: