Accessibility Progress in 2023
The year 2023 unfolded as a period of substantial progress at the forefront of accessibility worldwide, but especially in Australia. From policies to technological innovations and inspiring initiatives, there were notable strides made in various sectors. Here are some of our top picks on key victories and advancements that shaped the landscape throughout the year.
Policy
Australian Government introduced the Disability Services and Inclusion (Consequential Amendments and Transitional Provisions) Bill 2023, the bill replaces the Disability Services Act 1986 by establishing a framework for the funding and regulation of programs for the benefit of people with disability, and their families and carers.
Read more about the Disability Services and Inclusion Bill 2023
The UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) released the global survey report on persons with disabilities and disasters. The survey aimed to identify if persons with disabilities are prepared for potential disasters, whether early warning and risk information are available and accessible, if persons with disabilities are aware of UNDRR plans at national and local levels, and if persons with disabilities are participating in UNDRR decision-making and planning. Sadly, The results show limited progress in disability inclusion over the past 10 years, with no significant differences across the regions. Hopefully, this will be a wake-up call for countries to do better.
Read more about the Global Survey Disaster Report on PwD.
Media, Entertainment and Beauty
10 of Australia’s most well-known brands came together in support of disability representation with the ‘Unignorable Adbreak’, swapping out key scenes in their advertising to include a person with a disability to launch the Shift 20 Initiative. Many more organisations are expected to come on board this initiative.
Read more about the Shift 20 Initiative
Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine has partnered with Making Space Media, a company run by and championing disabled talent. This exciting collaboration aims to create unscripted content that authentically showcases the diverse experiences of the disability community, moving away from harmful stereotypes and promoting inclusion.
Read more about Hello Sunshine partnering with Making Space Media
L'Oréal, the cosmetics giant, has made waves in the beauty industry with the innovative introduction of its Adaptive Makeup Applicator. The initial prototype, HAPTA, is a handheld, computerized applicator designed for individuals with limited hand mobility. Using haptic feedback and precise stabilization, HAPTA assists in applying lipstick, offering greater control and ease.
Read more about L'Oreal's Adaptive Makeup Applicator
Technology
Be My Eyes, a revolutionary mobile app, has been bridging this gap for years, connecting blind users with sighted volunteers who offer real-time visual assistance. Now, Be My Eyes has taken a groundbreaking leap forward by integrating GPT-4, the latest and most powerful language model from OpenAI, to offer AI-powered support specifically for blind Microsoft customers.
Vacayit launched its accessible audio player, it not only offers robust accessibility features like screen reader compatibility and keyboard navigation, but it also includes an integrated transcript. This means websites can finally offer inclusive audio experiences, and users can enjoy audio content without limitations.
Read more about Vacayit’s Accessible Audio Player
Sony introduced Project Leonardo for PlayStation 5, a highly customisable controller kit. Swappable buttons, adjustable sticks, and flexible layouts empower players with disabilities to sculpt a controller that mirrors different needs. For many players with disabilities, this has been a dream long denied, and now, Sony has taken the first step towards making it a reality.
Read more about Sony’s Project Leonardo
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) were recently updated to version 2.2, adding new considerations for businesses seeking to make their websites accessible. This updated version builds upon the solid foundation laid by its predecessors, but extends its reach by introducing nine additional success criteria and refining existing ones.
Read more about the 2.2 WCAG Guidelines
Tourism and Hospitality
2023 marked Queensland's Year of Accessible Tourism, with $12 million in new funding invested to help the Queensland tourism industry better cater to visitors of all abilities. Following the success of the year, the year of accessible tourism was extended for another year.
Read more about the Queensland Year of Accessible Tourism
Martin Heng, in collaboration with the the Valuable 500, delves into the findings of a recent travel survey where 3,500 travellers with disabilities voted on the 'most accessible' world cities. The result is a comprehensive report unveiling the ten cities globally recognised for their effort in accessibility.
Read more about the Valuable 500 report
Wheel the World launched its new Destination Verified program as a way to accelerate accessibility within destinations themselves and promote these destinations to those with disabilities.
Read more about the Destination Verified program
Caravan Industry Association of Australia has announced a new industry partnership with The Accessible Group, focused on delivering new accessible tourism experiences in Australia’s caravan and camping sector.
Read more about Accessible Caravanning and Camping
Sunshine Coast Airport, the first airport in Australia to install BindiMaps, an accessible digital wayfinding solution, aims to create a truly welcoming and accessible experience for everyone travelling through Sunshine Coast Airport.
Read more about Sunshine Coast Airport implementing BindiMaps
Destinations International and TravelAbility are embarking on a joint effort to promote accessibility in the travel and tourism industry. This initiative will benefit more than 700 destinations around the world.
Read more about Destinations International and Travelability
Destination Gold Coast launched its Accessible Visitor Guide. The Guide provides detailed accessibility information about the hotel room, what to do and how to get there. This guide will help visitor plan, book and travel with confidence.
Read more about the Visitor Guide
2023 is the first year to see ‘Excellence in Accessible Tourism’ as a National category award in Australia. The winners in each respective state were BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (QLD), Cocky Guides (NSW), The Accessible Group (Victoria), Adelaide Fringe (SA), Off The Beaten Track WA (WA), Katherine Outback Experience (NT).
Read more about the Excellence in Accessible Tourism Award
As we reflect on the events of 2023, it is evident that progress has been made in the accessibility and disability space. From policy changes to technological innovations and inclusive initiatives across various sectors, there is a collective push toward creating a more accessible and inclusive world. However, challenges remain, and the journey towards full inclusivity continues, fueled by the dedication of individuals, organisations, and governments worldwide.
Share with us your accessibility highlights for 2023 in the comments.
Photo credit: Destination Gold Coast
