Review of Access to Telecommunication Services by People with Disability, Older Australians and People Experiencing Illness

Telecommunication services play a vital role in the lives of all Australians. They provide access to emergency assistance and are important for community participation, employment and social interaction. They also promote independence.

The Australian Government is conducting a review which will look at how people with disability, older Australians and people experiencing illness can maximise the benefits of new and emerging technologies such as the internet and mobile devices. The review will also look at the assistance provided by the National Relay Service (NRS) to people who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment.

The review is being undertaken by the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy. Copies of the terms of reference and information on how to make a submission to the review can be obtained from www.dbcde.gov.au/disability or by emailing tda@dbcde.gov.au, or calling the toll-free number 1800 066 480.

If you are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment, you can contact the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy through the NRS:

• TTY users call 133 677 then ask for 1800 066 480
• ‘Speak and Listen’ users call 1300 555 727 then ask for 1800 066 480
• Internet Relay users connect to www.iprelay.com.au and ask for 1800 066 480

The closing date for submissions is 2 September 2011.

People not wishing to make a submission are encouraged to provide comment in other ways. Visit www.dbcde.gov.au/disability for information on how you can do so.

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