Accessibility

We are committed to ensuring equal access to the information on our websites.

The OpenCities platform that this website is powered by is audited annually against Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA standards by Vision Australia – Australia’s peak body and industry leader for the provision of digital accessibility services.

Word and Portable Document Format (PDF) documents

We have attempted to use HyperText Markup Language (HTML) where possible to present information on our website.

While every effort is being made to provide text-based equivalents, or accessible alternatives for our documents, much of this content remains in the Adobe PDF format.

The Adobe Accessibility Resource Centre provides information on the accessibility features of their software, in particular Adobe Reader. An online tool for converting PDF documents to text is also available from the Resource Centre.

ReadSpeaker

With ReadSpeaker webReader, the content on a website can be read aloud to you.

The text on a web page is simultaneously read aloud and highlighted so you can easily follow along.

You don't have to download anything.

How does it work?

Activate webReader by selecting the Listen button.

Screenshot of listen button

webReader also allows you to:

  • Select text and click the listen button in the pop-up menu that appears to have the selected text read.
  • Hover over a paragraph of text to have it read out automatically.
  • View a clutter-free version of the web page with text in your preferred font, size and colour as it is read aloud and highlighted.
  • Download an audio version of your content for offline listening.
  • Translate a selected text to a number of languages and have the text read in the target language.
  • Personalise reading speed, highlighting colours, and more.
  • Select a word and find its definition in the dictionary.

Clear instructions on how to use each feature are provided in the Help Tool, which is found in the toolbar. Try reading through the Help Tool to pick up ideas on how to make optimal use of webReader's features!

Screenshot of the toolbar

Keyboard Navigation

Many of the webReader tools and features also have a dedicated access key.

  • Put focus on Listen button: Modifier + K
  • Activate webReader player: Modifier + L
  • Open/close toolbar: Modifier + 1
  • Open Help feature: Modifier + I
  • Other access keys: see Help feature

Cookies

webReader is best used with cookies enabled, as it will allow the user’s personal settings to be saved between sessions.

Platforms and web browsers

webReader is a device-independent and cross-platform solution. It should work with:

  • All commonly used online devices: pc, laptop, Chromebook, tablet, smartphone, and more.
  • All major operating systems: Windows, Chrome, Android, iOS, macOS, and more.
  • All major browsers:
    • for laptops and PCs: IE7+, Edge, Chrome, Firefox and Safari
    • for mobile devices: Safari and Chrome on iOS devices, Chrome on Android devices, Chrome and Edge on Windows Phone

To learn more about ReadSpeaker, visit the ReadSpeaker website 

National Relay Service

The National Relay Service is an Australian Government initiative. If you are deaf and/or find it hard hearing or speaking with people who use a phone, the National Relay Service (NRS) can help you.

  • A call through the NRS lets you communicate with a hearing person who is using a phone even if you can't hear or don't use your voice.
  • The NRS has specially trained staff called Relay Officers who help with every call.
  • Depending on the type of call, a Relay Officer will change voice to text or text to voice and AUSLAN to English or English to AUSLAN.
  • Relay officers stay on the line throughout each call to help it go smoothly, but don't change or get in the way of what is being said.
  • Except for calls made through Video Relay, the NRS is available 24 Hours a day, every day.
  • Depending on your hearing and speech, and equipment you have, you can choose from one or more relay call types.

National Relay Service user registration

From 20 April 2021, users will need to register to continue to use the NRS.

Visit the National Relay Service website  

Feedback or requests for alternatives

We will continue to work towards providing an accessible website and appreciate any feedback or suggestions you would like to offer.

If you have trouble accessing any content or documents on our website, please provide feedback or request an alternative using the online form.

Accessibility feedback or request for alternative