What is Accessibility?
An accessible website ensures that everyone can access and understand its content—regardless of their ability, language, or environment. This includes people with disabilities and those who speak English as a second language. Accessibility also considers factors like the user’s technology and surroundings.
Why Accessibility Matters
Accessible websites benefit everyone. They are inclusive of people who rely on assistive technologies, and they offer a better experience across all devices. By making your website accessible, you ensure your content can reach the widest possible audience.
Why Your Website Must Be Accessible
All Australian Government agencies are required to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 Level AA, as mandated by the Web Accessibility National Transition Strategy.
Making Content Accessible
The Digital Transformation Agency (DTA) provides best-practice guidelines in the Digital Service Standard. Criterion 9 focuses on accessibility throughout a website’s lifecycle:
- Discovery: Plan how your service will meet WCAG 2.0 Level AA standards.
- Alpha: Identify usability issues and potential accessibility barriers.
- Beta: Design with end users in mind—consider how they’ll interact with your site, including on mobile devices.
- Live: Implement ongoing testing to ensure the service remains accessible over time.
Accessibility and GovCMS
GovCMS distributions are built to support accessibility and avoid creating barriers. However, it’s up to content authors to maintain accessibility. This includes using:
- Proper heading structures
- Semantic styles
- Alternative (alt) text for images
Agencies are also responsible for the theme layer. When designing themes, consider:
- Colour contrast
- Readability of text over images
- Visual clarity
Learn More
Helpful resources for understanding and applying accessibility include: