The style guide is the standard for nsw.gov.au writing and editing. It's for everyone who writes, edits or approves content on the NSW Government website.
nsw.gov.au editorial style guide
For comprehensive guidance on creating purposeful, accessible and consistent content for nsw.gov.au audiences, visit the Editorial style guide.
Language and spelling
We use Australian English and the Macquarie Dictionary.
For in-depth guidance on specifics issues, refer to the following sections of the Editorial style guide:
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Spelling and punctuation: A-Z list of preferred spellings and punctuation conventions.
- Plain English and inclusive language: how to write for everyone.
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Using clear language: how and when to use abbreviations, contractions, capitals and terms like 'must', 'could' and 'should'.
Style and tone
Understand the nsw.gov.au voice, tone, writing style and user-centred approach – including plain English, inclusive language and our topic-based site structure.
See the Style, tone and structure section of the style guide.
Other detailed guidance
The style guide also covers the following topics:
- Numbers and numerals: formatting numbers, numerals, dates, measurements, money, percentages, fractions and time.
- Headings, links, naming and labelling: how to write effective headings, alt text and link text, using short titles and slugs, naming conventions and heading hierarchies.
- Summaries, structure, formatting and images. Editorial guidance to help you choose images, write effective page summaries, and follow our style conventions for lists and text formatting.
Need any more help?
If you have any questions, or require assistance with anything mentioned on this article, submit a request via the webform.