Paper Type

Complete

Paper Number

PACIS2025-1884

Description

Despite global advancements, many online platforms worldwide remain inaccessible to people relying on assistive technologies. Recognising this gap, our research evaluates the accessibility of 29 high-traffic Australian public health platforms using automated testing technique against the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Findings reveal significant limitations in accessibility, highlighting common issues that contribute to health information inequity for VIP. As an early audit preceding the implementation of Australia's Digital Inclusion Standard in 2025, this study provides a vital baseline for evaluating WCAG compliance. The research extends previous work by examining engagement channels alongside homepages, offering a more comprehensive understanding of accessibility barriers. Recommendations for improving accessibility practices and promoting equitable digital environments are discussed, emphasizing the importance of such audits towards digital inclusion.

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Jul 6th, 12:00 AM

Keeping an Eye on Health: Assessing the Accessibility of Australian Public Health Platforms for Visually Impaired People

Despite global advancements, many online platforms worldwide remain inaccessible to people relying on assistive technologies. Recognising this gap, our research evaluates the accessibility of 29 high-traffic Australian public health platforms using automated testing technique against the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). Findings reveal significant limitations in accessibility, highlighting common issues that contribute to health information inequity for VIP. As an early audit preceding the implementation of Australia's Digital Inclusion Standard in 2025, this study provides a vital baseline for evaluating WCAG compliance. The research extends previous work by examining engagement channels alongside homepages, offering a more comprehensive understanding of accessibility barriers. Recommendations for improving accessibility practices and promoting equitable digital environments are discussed, emphasizing the importance of such audits towards digital inclusion.