Three major accessibility updates in Australia, and what they mean for your organization in 2026 - Deque
Summary
Australia introduced three major digital accessibility changes in 2025: the AHRC set WCAG 2.2 Level AA as the minimum benchmark, expanded DDA obligations to cover SaaS platforms, AI tools, IoT and mobile apps, and the DTA enforced a Digital Experience Policy requiring government services to meet inclusion, access, and performance standards. Deque advises organizations to target EN 301 549 plus WCAG 2.2 AA now to avoid redundant remediation and to widen compliance efforts beyond websites. The AHRC guidance also prescribes practical steps: create Alternate Access Plans, embed accessibility across the SDLC, include accessibility clauses in vendor contracts, and provide accessible alternatives for biometric authentication. Act now by shifting accessibility left with automated and role-specific tools, continuously monitor regulatory changes, and align roadmaps to reduce legal, financial, and reputational risk while expanding market reach.