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WCAG 2.0 AA

All department websites must conform to the . It might sound technical, but it's simply the international standard for web accessibility. There are three levels of compliance: Single A, Double A and Triple A. We need to meet the Double A standard. Where possible, we should aim to exceed it.

The guidelines are organised into that explain what to keep in mind when developing websites and publishing web content. These are that content should be:

• perceivable
• operable
• understandable
• robust.

Standards for web developers

To help make websites that use dynamic content and complex user interface elements more accessible, developers must implement the . Dynamic content could include:

• drop-down menus
• accordions or show/hides
• carousels or galleries
• content developed with Ajax, HTML, JavaScript and related technologies.

Dynamic content and user interface elements must follow the design patterns outlined in .

Government mandates

As a government agency, the NSW Department of ÌÇÐÄvlog¹ÙÍø is required to meet web accessibility standards under federal and state government mandates.

Federal

The National Transition Strategy, implemented in 2010, required all government websites (including states and territories) to meet the Double A standard by the end of 2014.

The Australian Government's accessibility requirements are outlined in .

State

The NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet also mandated web accessibility for all government websites through the .

Legislation

Under the (the DDA), we must uphold the fundamental right for people with disabilities to access information. Failure to do so subjects us to possible disability discrimination complaints.

The Australian Human Rights Commission's provides useful background information about the DDA and web accessibility.