This Isn't Optional

The Australian Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) applies to websites. The Human Rights Commission has explicitly stated that websites are covered under the Act. If your website isn't accessible, you're potentially discriminating against 4.4 million Australians with disability.

Beyond the legal requirement, it's good business. Accessible websites reach more customers, rank better on Google, and provide a better experience for everyone.

The Quick Wins (Do These Today)

### 1. Add Alt Text to Every Image Screen readers can't see images. Alt text describes what's in the image so visually impaired users understand your content.

Bad: Good: The Sonder Digital team working in our Sydney office

### 2. Ensure Sufficient Colour Contrast Text needs a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 against its background. Light grey text on white? That's failing. Use WebAIM's contrast checker to verify. ### 3. Make All Interactive Elements Keyboard Accessible Not everyone uses a mouse. Can you navigate your entire site using only the Tab key and Enter? If not, keyboard users can't use your site. ### 4. Use Proper Heading Structure Headings (H1, H2, H3) aren't just for styling - screen readers use them to navigate. Use them in order, don't skip levels, and don't use them just to make text bigger. ### 5. Add Labels to Form Fields Every input field needs a visible label. Placeholder text that disappears when you start typing doesn't count.

The WCAG Standard

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA is the standard Australian courts reference. It covers four principles:

1. Perceivable - Information must be presentable in ways all users can perceive 2. Operable - Users must be able to operate the interface 3. Understandable - Information and operation must be understandable 4. Robust - Content must be robust enough to work with assistive technologies

What Happens If You Don't Comply?

The Australian Human Rights Commission can investigate complaints about inaccessible websites. While fines are rare, the reputational damage and legal costs of a complaint far exceed the cost of making your site accessible in the first place.

Want to know how accessible your website is? Request a free accessibility audit and we'll give you a prioritised list of fixes.