Commissioner commends improved phone access for people with disabilities
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) yesterday registered a code which will require the manufacturers or importers of all phones to advise telecommunications companies of features which will make them more accessible for people with disabilities.
"I congratulate ACMA for this initiative," said Graeme Innes, Commissioner responsible for disability discrimination. "This code will ensure that people with various disabilities maximise their chances to use the telephone system," he said.
If a phone has larger print on the screen, buttons that are easier to locate by feel, or a vibrate mode which would indicate to a deaf person that a message has arrived, the manufacturers or importers will be required to advise the telecommunications companies. This will mean that when people with particular disabilities are choosing which phone to buy, such features can be pointed out.
"The fast advances in technology are a challenge to many Australians, and it is pleasing that this code will make selection of phones less of a challenge for Australians with disabilities," Commissioner Innes said. "I encourage ACMA to continue to recognise the disadvantage in the area of communications faced by many Australians with disabilities, and redress it where possible."
Media contact: Gail Heathwood (02) 9284 9834
Last updated January 31, 2008 .
