Link February 2017 Volume 26 Issue 1 | Page 17

power to the people
members have worked on a list of 57 accessibility features for Smart TVs and Wearables that companies participating in the GARI initiative will now report against . As with mobile phones , there are many accessibility features in these devices available however it can be hard for consumers to learn about them .
GARI provides the perfect platform to address this need . While the list of accessibility features for Wearables is similar to the list of over 100 features already curated for mobile phones and tablets , the Smart TV category brings a number of entirely new features to GARI , including audio description , voiced electronic programme and voice guide settings .
“ These features can , for example , make an enormous difference to a customer with vision impairment ,” Mr Milligan said . “ The feature lists will also be reviewed based on stakeholder consultation , so they will continue to grow and evolve , ensuring that GARI serves its purpose of empowering consumers through information and driving accessibility through user demand .”
power to the people
Australia ’ s consumer protection agencies have launched a campaign to educate and empower consumers buying goods and services under the new National Disability Insurance Scheme ( NDIS ).
The resources have been developed in consultation with disability support organisations , the National Disability Insurance Agency , disability advocates and disability complaint bodies .
“ With the roll out of the NDIS and the significant changes in the
disability sector , it is important that consumers do their research , understand their rights , and use them if things go wrong ,” Consumer Affairs Victoria director Simon Cohen said .
“ The guides and videos will assist consumers with a disability to understand their key consumer rights , and provide tips about making purchasing decisions .”
The resources will also assist community organisations , carers and support networks to understand the consumer law and where to go for help . ACL regulators have also released a guide for businesses that supply goods and service to consumers with a disability , to ensure they are aware of their legal obligations .

These educational resources are available free from consumer . vic . gov . au / resources-and-education / consumers-with-a-disability are you getting Link E-nEws ?

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