About the Plain English Version (PEV) Bible
The Plain English Version (PEV) is a special Bible translation 
created for Indigenous Australians who speak Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander languages and use English as a second language.
With over 120 Indigenous languages spoken across Australia, many communities have found traditional Bible translations hard to understand. The PEV was developed to meet this need—bringing the message of the Gospel in clear, accessible English that reflects how these communities think and speak.
At Bible League, we believe everyone should have access to God ’s Word in a way they can truly understand. That’s why every PEV Bible is provided free of charge to Indigenous individuals, churches, and communities in Australia.
A Unique and Powerful Collaboration
The PEV project began in 2003, the result of a collaborative vision between: Bible League Australia, Retired Wycliffe translators, passionate about Bible accessibility AuSIL (Australian Society for Indigenous Languages).
Together, this partnership has created a Bible that faithfully reflects the original message of Scripture—while using simple language structures that make it easier for Indigenous readers to engage deeply with God’s truth.
Why the PEV Bible Matters
Traditional Bible translations can be difficult to understand, full of unfamiliar grammar, abstract phrases, and complex sentence structures.
The Plain English Version addresses this by:
- Using clear, simple grammar
- Avoiding passive voice, which isn’t used in most Indigenous languages
- Replacing abstract nouns with verbs and action-oriented language
- Breaking down figurative language to explain the meaning. While the PEV carries the same truth and message as any faithful Bible translation, its style and structure are designed to connect better with Indigenous readers.
Example 1 – Passive vs. Active Voice:
NIV (Acts 16:30): “What must I do to be saved?” PEV: “What can I do that God will save me?”
Example 2 – Abstract vs. Clear Action:
NIV (1 Peter 1:3): “… a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ…” PEV: “Jesus died, but God brought him back to life. From that we know that God will save us too.”
Examples of the difference
Confirmation Content
Impact Stories
Read the stories below and see the impact of the Plain English Version Bibles in Indigenous Communities
Confirmation Content
Why Your Help Matters
Many Indigenous communities have never had access to the Bible in a way that feels truly theirs. The PEV Bible changes that. It opens the door for spiritual growth, discipleship, and the joy of truly knowing Jesus.
When you give through the Badayala for Bibles campaign, you help Indigenous Australians experience the light, love, and life-changing truth of God’s Word.
Confirmation Content
By providing Bibles, biblical resources, language translations and training. Together, your partnership is transforming lives globally by helping people engage with God’s Word, and in ways they understand, so they come to know Jesus.
