The Standard derives from the Web Accessibility National Transition Strategy that was released by the Australian Government in 2010. Under the strategy, all government websites are required to meet WCAG 2.0 level A by 2012 and all Federal Government websites must meet WCAG 2.0 level AA by 2014.
The eGovernment Resource Centre stated on Twitter that “All Victorian government websites will now comply with WCAG 2.0 - level A by December 31, 2012.”
The Accessibility Standard applies to all Internet sites including channels, portals and sub-domains of all departments and four inner budget agencies.
Accessible websites ensure content is available to a wider audience and assist people with disabilities to fully interact with it. They also increase the usability of a site and comply with the law and the requirement of the Disability Discrimination Act that information be provided to all people without discrimination on the basis of disability.
The Web Accessibility National Transition Strategy, along with the Australian Human Rights Commission’s endorsement of WCAG 2.0, has increased the awareness of and commitment to web accessibility amongst Australian companies and organisations. The implementation of the strategy will enhance the experience of Australian websites for all users.
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