The Digital Access Show

On this week’s episode of The Digital Access Show, we chat with Louise Chiu from Australian mortgage brokerage The Loan Lounge. Louise shares how smart technology can streamline paperwork, why meeting clients halfway matters, and her personal experience with disability through her mum’s hearing impairment.

This week on The Digital Access Show, Bernard Jones from Impact Corporate Training joins us to talk all things digital accessibility. Bernard shares insights from his Make Your Documents Accessible training, explores how governments are beginning to prioritise digital accessibility, and unpacks the stats behind disability today—highlighting why accessible digital experiences matter.

This week on The Digital Access Show, Laetitia Thompson from the Centre for Accessibility Australia explores how social media can both help and hinder digital accessibility. Drawing on her experience working in social media, Laetitia shares practical tips and insights for making social platforms more accessible for everyone.

This week on The Digital Access Show, Allan Parker OAM dives into how our brains process communication, why accessibility matters, and practical ways we can connect more effectively. Tune in for a conversation that will change the way you think about communication.

Episode Notes How can Brisbane 2032 set a new benchmark for accessibility? We explore digital accessibility, inclusive sport, transport, volunteering and the legacy of the Olympic and Paralympic Games with leaders from the Gold Coast Active Inclusion Program.

Episode Notes On this week's episode of The Digital Access Show, David Easton from Support Finance Group shares his perspective as a mortgage broker dedicated to helping people within the NDIS community—from participants to carers—turn the dream of homeownership into reality. He explores why no one should be left behind on the journey to the property ladder, highlighting the barriers many still face in an increasingly digital world. David also sheds light on the shortcomings of online banking platforms involving digital accessibility, calling for greater compassion, inclusion, and a stronger commitment to designing digital experiences that truly work for everyone.

Episode Notes In Episode 24 of The Digital Access Show, Marisa Sposaro joins Narelle Wright to discuss her journey as a Braille user and how assistive technology has transformed the way she works, communicates and lives independently. Together they explore Braille literacy, screen readers, digital accessibility and why the right technology can make all the difference.

Episode Notes Is AI the answer to digital accessibility? Or are we asking the wrong question? This week on The Digital Access Show, Narelle Wright is joined by Jesse Costelloe and Marzieh Tafreshi to explore the exciting, and sometimes challenging, future of AI, innovation and accessibility. From personalised AI assistants and agentic AI to privacy concerns and inclusive design, this conversation looks beyond the hype to ask one important question: How can technology create a more accessible world without leaving people behind? If you're curious about where AI is taking accessibility, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 👍 Like, subscribe and share to help make digital accessibility everyone's responsibility. #DigitalAccessibility #AI #Accessibility #InclusiveDesign #Innovation #DisabilityInclusion #TheDigitalAccessShow

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle Wright speaks with David Oram from Atomic Web Strategy about practical website accessibility, inclusive design, and the common barriers that stop people from accessing online information. They discuss keyboard accessibility, accessible WordPress themes, menus, sliders, hover effects, forms, error messages, ARIA live regions, programmatic relationships, colour contrast, and why accessibility should be built into every website from the start. If you build, manage, audit, or own a website, this conversation will help you understand why accessible websites are not just better for people with disability, but better for everyone.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle Wright speaks with Clinton Hale about how education has changed for neurodivergent students and students with disability. They discuss learning plans, teacher support, parent advocacy, assistive technology and why digital accessibility matters in every classroom.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Aaron Orme from Vision Management and Coordination about the proposed NDIS changes and what they could mean for participants. As both disability professionals and NDIS participants, Narelle and Aaron discuss: • Digital accessibility and why it matters• Inaccessible websites, forms and invoices• Choice and control under the NDIS• Risks created by inaccessible information• Digital payment reforms and participant protections• Accessible communication for people with disability• Provider responsibilities and best practice• The impact of poor accessibility on independence and trust This conversation highlights the real-world barriers people with disability continue to face when information is not provided in accessible formats.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Tim Durrant from Lightmare Studios about living with epilepsy, the role gaming played in developing fine motor skills and social connections, and how technology can create more inclusive digital experiences. They also explore accessibility in gaming, the future of AI, and the resilience needed to overcome life's challenges.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Belinda Vesey-Brown from Brio Group and Coach Aandi about digital accessibility, neurodiverse learning and the future of education. Belinda shares how cognitive overload, inaccessible digital content and one size fits all teaching can affect children with ADHD, dyslexia and other learning differences. The conversation explores how AI and accessible technology could help create personalised learning experiences that build confidence, reduce overwhelm and support every child to learn in their own way. From step by step learning to mood based lesson adjustments and gamified education, this episode looks at how accessible design could completely reshape classrooms for the better.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Western Australian MLA Frank Paolino about living with congenital nystagmus, a vision impairment that causes rapid involuntary eye movement. Frank shares the challenges he faced growing up, from bullying and struggles with reading to being told he would never drive a car. He also talks about adapting to technology, working in politics with a vision impairment, and the importance of resilience, inclusion, and finding another way forward. This is a powerful conversation about disability, determination, and embracing what makes us different.

Episode Notes Sonia Tremblay shares how one conversation about digital accessibility completely changed the way her team designs websites. From accessible headings and meaningful buttons to inclusive design practices across global clients, Sonia explains why accessibility is not complicated — it’s about awareness, detail and doing better for everyone.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle chats with Vanessa Norman about creating accessible events and improving digital accessibility across business communications. Vanessa shares practical insights from running national NDIS events and explains how simple accessibility considerations can make conferences, presentations, and digital content more inclusive for everyone. Topics discussed include: Planning physically accessible events Supporting people with hearing, vision, and sensory needs Creating accessible presentations and documents Providing Auslan interpreters and quiet spaces Making websites and digital communications more accessible Why accessibility is often easier and more affordable than businesses think

Episode Notes People with disability face higher risks online, from scams to inaccessible security systems. In this episode, Luke Irwin from Aegis Cybersecurity shares practical tips to stay safe while navigating digital barriers. Learn how businesses and individuals can do better to protect data and improve access.

Episode Notes What does true accessibility look like in live events, theatre, and video content? In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle brings together experts in audio description, Auslan interpretation, and digital accessibility to explore how inclusive experiences are created and where gaps still exist. You will hear from:• Belinda Vesey-Brown on accessible design and video remediation• Shannon Kettleton on deaf access, Auslan, and community needs• Megan Bytheway on theatre interpreting and preparation• Shari Indriani Irwin on the art and challenge of audio description This honest and practical conversation covers:• How audio description works in live theatre• What it takes to prepare Auslan interpretation for shows• The challenges of accessibility in live and recorded content• Why planning ahead is critical for inclusion• The real experience of attending events with disability Whether you work in events, education, media, or digital content, this episode will help you understand how to create more inclusive experiences for everyone. Accessibility is not an add on. It starts from the beginning.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, we sit down with Jodi Kneepkens, founder of Going Daily Assisted Transport, to explore how one idea turned into a powerful, accessibility-focused service. Jodi shares her journey from support work to launching an accessible transport business designed to give people greater independence and choice. But it didn’t stop at transport. Jodi made a conscious decision to ensure her entire digital experience, from website to booking system, is fully accessible.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with speech pathologist Janelle Sampson about augmentative and alternative communication and the many ways people express themselves beyond speech. They explore tools such as symbols, devices, and eye gaze technology, and discuss why communication is about connection, not just words. Janelle shares practical insights on reducing assumptions, respecting each person’s voice, and creating more inclusive digital and real world environments so everyone can communicate in a way that works for them.

Episode Notes What if communication didn’t rely on speech alone? In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle sits down with speech therapist Libby Brownlie to explore keyword sign—a powerful yet often overlooked communication strategy that supports people who have difficulty speaking or understanding speech. Libby explains how keyword sign works, who it helps, and why it remains an essential tool in the world of disability and augmentative communication. From children with developmental delays to adults with brain injuries, keyword sign offers a practical, human-centred way to connect. You’ll also learn: What keyword sign is (and how it differs from Auslan) Why communication is more complex than we realise How gesture and body language play a vital role in understanding The pros and cons of high-tech communication tools vs signing How you can start learning and using keyword sign This episode is an eye-opening conversation about accessibility, inclusion, and the many ways we can make communication more human. Listen, learn, and rethink what communication really means.

Episode Notes Are disability expos and networking events really accessible? In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle speaks with Sue Wickham and Rosie Putland about the simple, practical steps event organisers can take to remove barriers. From better venue information and accessible marketing to guide dog facilities and presenter training, this conversation explores how to build trust and create inclusive events that work for everyone.

Episode Notes Simone Eyles from Disinfluencer candidly shares what it's like to build a marketing business around disability inclusion and to help bring inclusivity to disability for other brands and businesses.

This week's guest is Melanie Robertson from Deafblind Information Australia. We focused on topics around digital accessibility via website audits, the quality of online platforms the deafblind community is used to, and much more.

This week's guest is Matthew Horspool. He works in assistive technology, training others to use digitally accessible technologies. Matthew candidly shares what it's like to live in the UK as not only someone who works with digital accessibility, but also as someone with a disability that depends on that very technology he trains others to use.

This week's guest is Nick Hosking from KN Website Design and the Do Better Campaign. Nick helps illuminate what digital accessibility truly asks from web developers and designers, and whether DIY website builders can create accessible environments.

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle sits down once again with disability advocate and educator Tommy Trout, founder of Disbranded and Inclusive AF. Together, they dive into the complex, sometimes confronting, but deeply important history of disability in Australia—and what it teaches us about inclusion today. Tommy shares powerful insights from his work, including stories of hidden pioneers, the impact of institutionalisation, and why understanding our past is essential for creating a more accessible future. Narelle and Tommy explore what inclusion really means, how businesses can take meaningful action, and why younger generations are driving positive cultural change. This is an honest, uplifting, and thought‑provoking conversation about disability pride, acceptance, and the small steps that lead to big shifts. Ask yourself: What does inclusivity mean to you?

Episode Notes In this episode of The Digital Access Show, Narelle is joined by brand designer and accessibility specialist Shannon Towell for a deep dive into the world of colour accessibility. From contrast ratios to colour‑blindness considerations, Shannon breaks down how colour shapes user experience — and why relying on colour alone can leave people behind. Shannon also shares the story behind her innovative multicolour contrast checker, a tool designed to help creators, designers, and brands quickly assess and improve the accessibility of their colour palettes. Whether you're building a website, refreshing a brand, or simply wanting to make your content more inclusive, this episode offers practical insights and easy wins to elevate accessibility. A must‑listen for anyone who wants their digital spaces to welcome everyone.

Episode Notes Explore how screen readers and braille devices help people with blindness or low vision access digital content. Narelle chats with Mark Muscat from Digital Access Solutions about accessibility tools, common barriers, and why inclusive design is essential for every website and app.

Episode Notes Digital accessibility starts with mindset, not technology. In the Season 3 opener of The Digital Access Show, host Narelle Wright (DASAT) speaks with Kim Amor from KN Website Design about why accessibility is still being missed — and how education, not effort, is the biggest barrier. The conversation explores how accessibility and SEO work together, challenges the myth of “I don’t have clients with disability”, and explains why accessible digital communication improves outcomes for everyone. Topics covered: Mindset as the foundation for accessibility Accessibility and SEO alignment Why are only around 4% of websites are accessible Education gaps in web design and development Risks of DIY and AI-generated websites

Episode Notes Craig Shanahan has made a habit of turning a negative into a positive. As the Blind Chef, Craig worked out how to open a cafe that was to become the go to in the area. Why? Craig gives the answers in t his episode.

Episode Notes Voting is a mandatory requirement in Australia. Every person also has the right to vote without letting others know who you vote for. However, when you have a disability such as low or no vision, it can be hard to vote Luna Rose has no vision. Ever wonder how she votes and what are the barriers that she has to voting?

Episode Notes Paul Price is a sound engineer with Reading Radio. He has lived with disability all his life. What has Paul had to do to try to get access to information? How does it make a person feel when, to access information, they have to take the extra measures that Paul had to do?

Episode Notes Christmas is a time of giving. So this year we are giving some tips and tricks for you to put into practice in the coming weeks. Reece Crawford joins us to learn as well. Have a wonderful christmas and a happy new year.

Episode Notes Shiralee McKitrick is a special lady. She not only has a rare disability herself, she and her partner, Simone, are raising two sone with disability. It really was a case of "You don't know what you don't know". Since being diagnosed herself Shiralee and her family have gone on a journey with a difference. What has that to do with communication and digital accessibility? Have a listen.

Episode Notes Emma Bennison is a leader in the Vision Impaired community. Emma, along with Graeme Innes, Vaughan Bennison and others have created a group called Blind Leaders United. In today's episode Emma discuss usable digital communication

Episode Notes Santiago Valesquez came to Australia as a child. He, like everyone, has issues catching public transport. However, Santiago has found a solution. Hear Santiago discuss the solution for people missing buses and the way to make public transport more efficient for us all. See www.hailo.co (http://www.hailo.co) for more information

Episode Notes Living with disability in a regional area of Australia comes with some extra challenges. From the lack of services to transport life is different to those who live in the city. Jaceen Ross discusses her experiences of living with disability in regional Queensland.

Episode Notes Alyce is a hearing impaired lady who teaches us about the challenges that she experiences in every day life. It is sad at times that she struggles to get t he message through.

Episode Notes Patrick Dillon had an accident which changed his life forever. Assistive technology has given him independence.

Episode Notes Meryl Evans was born profoundly deaf. She is a professional speaker, and trainer, accessibility marketing consultant and all round nice lady. What is accessibility for Meryl.

Season 2 Finale - Allan Parker and Marc Muscat It's the Season 2 Finale! DASAT’s Allan Parker and Mark Muscat join Narelle to wrap up The Digital Access Show for this year. They dive into the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 review, digital accessibility shifts across the EU, and what’s next for the show!

Episode Notes Jenni Engels has lived with vison impairment since childhood. She has had to create her own business so that she could work. Her journey is an interesting one.

Episode Notes Tara Shekede dives into the mission behind her company, Me Plus More, an online platform designed to help individuals with intellectual disabilities build confidence and independence in the digital world. She explores how users can protect themselves online through accessible, easy-to-understand tools and resources that promote safe digital engagement.

Episode Notes David Oram from Atomic Web Strategy shares what his company is all about, what the Do Better Campaign is, and what you need to consider when building a digitally accessible website.

Episode Notes Nick Hosking from KN Website Design is passionate about opening up the internet to everyone. He has joined the Do Better Campaign to ensure that everyone can read, access and understand the content on the website.

Episode Notes This week's guest is Jeb Ryan from Heart-Led Support, a company that focuses on helping men with their mental health and disabilities. Jeb dives into how Heart-Led Support came around, as well as his meaningful opinions on what needs to be considered in this area.

Episode Notes Belinda Vesey-Brown from Meet AandI is passionate about ensuring that all documents including videos are correctly captioned and audio described. Hear her thoughts about captions and audio description and what needs to be done.

Episode Notes Alex Bey from Meet AandI is a teaches people how to make documents accessible to everyone. Having family that require the accessible documents means that Alex knows not only the reasons for digital accessibility. He knows the barriers that the lack of digital accessibility brings.

Episode Notes Do Better is a campaign for purpose-led organisations ready to serve every customer — including people with disability and neurodivergence. At it's heart it is ensuring that digital accessibility becomes part of the standard operating procedure.