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It covers topics ranging from emergency preparedness to applying for a Photo Card.
This format presents information in a straightforward and easy-to-understand way, using simplified language, large font sizes, and supportive images.
This initiative is particularly beneficial for people with intellectual disabilities. In NSW, there are approximately 1.34 million residents living with a disability, with one in 20 requiring assistance in their daily lives, according to the Judicial Commission of New South Wales.
The Easy Read format also aids people with low literacy levels and those whose first language is not English.
Minister for Customer Service and Digital Government Jihad Dib emphasised the importance of inclusivity in government communications, stating, “Inclusion is a key priority for me, including making sure every resident can access the information they need online and in person.”
“I am grateful for the key role played by the Council for Intellectual Disability in partnering with my department to develop a guide for the NSW public sector on how to produce more information in Easy Read format.”
The newly launched Easy Read Hub fulfills Labor’s election commitment to make all NSW Government documents relevant to people with an intellectual disability available in Easy Read format by 2025.
So far, 36 topics have been translated into Easy Read, including guides on applying for social housing, paying debts, and accessing TAFE courses. Another 10 guides are in progress, covering areas such as emergency preparedness, topping up Opal cards, and staying safe from scams.
Reflecting on the ongoing efforts, Minister Dib added, “Lived experience provides an incredibly important insight, and we continue to work closely with people with intellectual disabilities and other stakeholders to ensure that our services are truly inclusive and accessible to all.”
“The launch of the Easy Read project is an important step as we continue to make NSW a more inclusive state for everyone.”
Minister for Disability Inclusion Kate Washington highlighted the government’s efforts for the disability community: “Coming into Government, we made a commitment to the disability community to make our important information available in Easy Read.”
“Working in partnership with the Council for Intellectual Disability, we’re delivering on our commitment so everyone can access the information they need.”
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In addition to delivering accessible guides, the government has released an Easy Read Style Guide in partnership with the Council for Intellectual Disability and other key stakeholders. This guide will assist NSW Government departments in preparing online content using the Easy Read format and is part of the NSW Government’s Accessibility and Inclusivity Toolkit, which provides guidance and tools for creating accessible content.
“The Easy Read format ensures we are clearly communicating important information about essential services to everyone, especially people with disability and those with low literacy levels,” Minister Washington added.
Fiona McKenzie AM, Vice-Chair of the Council for Intellectual Disability, expressed the significance of this initiative: “Easy Read is our ticket to inclusion! It helps us find the government services we need and how to live a full life in the community. Thanks to the Government for its commitment to Easy Read and listening to us about what makes good Easy Read.”
Adrianne Saplagio is a Content Producer at Comms Room, where she combines her passion for storytelling with her expertise in multimedia content creation. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for engaging audiences, Adrianne has been instrumental in crafting compelling narratives that resonate across various digital platforms.
