ACCAN, Australia’s peak national consumer advocacy organisation for communications has called upon the federal government to bolster ICT access for disabled members of society.

“For Australians living with a disability, connectivity is not optional. It is how medical devices are monitored remotely, how video interpreting services function, and how people participate in employment, education and everyday life when other infrastructure falls short,” said ACCAN.

The organization said the Government was currently reviewing the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, noting that this offered which a critical opportunity to strengthen ICT accessibility provisions. “There are no requirements for government agencies to procure accessible products and services,” it said.

ACCAN’s submission to the Select Committee on Productivity recommends the Committee consider three reforms: amending the DDA to require accessible ICT in government service delivery, requiring government agencies to procure accessible ICT products and services.

ACCAN said it also looked forward to supporting the development of the national plan for accessible information and communications.

“We also welcome the government’s confirmation of continued funding for Accessible Telecoms, ACCAN’s free, independent advice service for Australians living with a disability and older Australians navigating telecommunications products and services,” said ACCAN.