Government looks at ways to improve comms for the disabled

Stuart Corner
Monday, 16 February 2009 09:46

IT Industry - Market

Communications minister, senator Stephen Conroy, has announced a feasibility study into new ways to improve access to communications services and technologies for people with disabilities that would operate independent of telecommunications carriers.

"Major carriers currently operate disability equipment programs that provide specialised equipment to enable fixed phone access for people with disabilities," Conroy said. "The feasibility study will investigate the efficiency of the current arrangements, an analysis of emerging technologies and demand, projected costs and funding options.

"Communications services and technologies are vital tools for everyday life and enablers for the many benefits of the digital economy, including new opportunities in business, health care and education," said Conroy. "It is important that accessible, affordable and readily available communications services and technologies are within easy reach of all Australians, including those with disabilities."

Conroy told a People with Disabilities and Telecommunications Forum in Melbourne that his department had already done some preliminary scoping work for the study. "It will involve a detailed market analysis of the current arrangements for providing equipment to eligible people with disabilities. The study will assess the estimated demand for specialised equipment over the next 10 years, and what eligibility criteria might apply to accessing that equipment at subsidised rates.

"It will also include a technology analysis of what sort of equipment might be required, and whether some equipment not currently available in Australia, should be made available. An analysis of projected operational costs and funding options will also be undertaken.

Conroy promised there would be "comprehensive public consultation saying "In order to fully understand the current market environment, the Department will undertake targeted consultations with disability and consumer advocates, carriers and industry representatives. These findings will be provided to me by December this year."

And he told the audience: "Today's forum is an ideal opportunity for you to set the agenda and provide input into what the feasibility study might include.