Access iQ to provide online resource hub for assistance with web accessibility
Graeme Innes AM, Disability Discrimination Commissioner and NBN Ambassador for Disabilities, today formally launched Access iQ™,
a new social enterprise initiative aimed at ensuring websites, applications and digital experiences are accessible to people who have a disability or are ageing.
As a comprehensive hub for web accessibility resources, Access iQ will provide practical how-to information and guidance from industry experts worldwide to assist web professionals in ensuring their work meets national accessibility standards.
Access iQ™, an initiative of Media Access Australia, comes as the Australian Government approaches the first deadline of the Web Accessibility National Transition Strategy (NTS). The NTS requires that all Federal Government agencies, as well as third-party providers to government, make their online content accessible to people who have a disability by complying with international accessibility guidelines by December 2012.
“The National Transition Strategy offers a clear mandate to web professionals to make accessibility a core consideration in every digital experience,” said Alex Varley, Chief Executive, Media Access Australia. “However, comprehensive practical resources on how to go about this process have been so far lacking. Access iQ™ aims to fill this gap by both creating and aggregating best-practice content that advises web designers, developers and content authors on implementing accessibility across their digital content, designed with the NTS in mind.”
Access iQ™ will offer a broad range of accessibility resources , from case studies and checklists to coding samples, online tutorials and solutions forums. The majority of Access iQ™’s content is independently contributed by industry experts and professionals internationally, offering up-to-date perspectives on web accessibility with global applicability.
“While the National Transition Strategy guidelines render it particularly pertinent for Australian organisations, accessibility is of increasing importance globally,” said Graeme Innes AM. “As we move into an era where the predominant form of media experience is digital, ensuring equal access to this content is paramount to the quality of life which our society offers. Withan increasing number of services and information being moved online, all organisations will benefit from ensuring their website, web applications and digital experiences are accessible.
“The launch of Access iQ™ is a pivotal step towards accessibility across government and the broader web sphere, both within Australia and internationally.”
The Access iQ resource hub is now live at accessiq.org.
