Media Release by The Hon Bill Shorten MP

Mobile communications made more accessible

Joint Media Release with:

  • Senator the Hon Stephen Conroy, Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate

The Rudd Government today welcomed industry efforts to improve the accessibility of mobile communications services for the aged and people with disabilities.

“Helping people to understand the features of mobile devices and services that meet their specific needs will go a long way to improving accessibility,” said Senator Stephen Conroy, Minister for Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy.

“Mobile devices offer great opportunities for the aged and people with disabilities for social inclusion, independence and security and the Global Accessibility Reporting Initiative will help them to enjoy the benefits.”

Senator Conroy and Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Children’s Services, Mr Bill Shorten MP, today helped launched the Global Accessibility Reporting Initiative (GARI) with the Mobile Manufacturers Forum and the Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association.

The GARI will include an online resource providing clear and detailed information and reviews of mobile device features to help users understand and indentify products that meet their needs.

“The Rudd Government has made it a priority to improve the accessibility of communications services and this industry initiative fits well with our efforts in this area,” Senator Conroy said.