Accessible communication

blind person listening to mobile phone

We aim to make our communications accessible for all and we offer different ways you can communicate with us. See our events calendar for any upcoming accessible events.
You can also get in touch:

Access and Inclusion team
Phone: 03 8470 8327 
Email: disability.access@darebin.vic.gov.au 

On this page:


Assistive technology

Let us know what assistive technology (AT) you use or may need to communicate with us.

Assistive technology (AT) refers to any support (aid or piece of equipment) that helps someone complete an everyday task. Assistive technology includes wheelchairs, communication aids, prostheses, memory aids, non-slip mats, adjustable beds and more.

We have hearing loops and communication boards at our customer centres available for you.

Hearing loops

A hearing loop system, (sometimes called an audio induction loop) is a type of sound system for use by people with hearing aids. It enables
people with hearing aids to hear better.

At all our customer service centre locations, we have portable personal hearing devices and hearing loops on the desks. The Council Chambers at Preston features an audio loop that assists people with hearing aids. In our Preston Shire Hall and Preston City Hall we have portable hearing loops available for use.

If you need any assistance with setting up access to the hearing loop system, please contact the Customer Service team.

Accessible documents

All our documents and publications are available in alternative formats upon request. Formats include large print, electronic (CD or email), audio and hard copy. To request a document in an alternative format, contact us.

Websites

We are always reviewing accessibility standards to ensure our website maintains at least a minimum level AA compliance.

We continue to do our best to ensure our information is is available to all users including those with visual, motor or cognitive disabilities. If you have any recommendations or would like to provide feedback on how we could improve our website, please email communications@darebin.vic.gov.au.

Visit the World Wide Web Consortium website for more information on accessible websites.

Simple and clear communication tips

Simple and clear communication supports access to information.

It is important to plan communication with accessibility and inclusivity in mind. Accessible and inclusive communications is designed so that everyone can understand the information you are sharing. The Victorian government's accessible guideline standards for government communications for making information easy to read and understand.

Auslan sign language interpreters

Sign language interpreters are available for deaf residents to allow them to participate in our meetings, forums, community consultation and general council events. To organise an Auslan interpreter, contact our Customer Service team.

Support for D/deaf, hearing or speech impaired community members

If you are D/deaf, have a hearing impairment or speech impairment, contact us through the National Relay Service (NRS).

You need to register to use the National Relay Service (NRS).

When talking to us using one of the NSR options ask for or select our phone number: 03 8470 8888.

More information

The National Relay Service
NRS Chat
SMS Relay 0423 677 767
Video Relay open Skype and contact NRS Video Relay Service
NRS Captions
Voice Relay phone: 1300 555 727
TTY (Speak and Read, Type and Read and Type and Listen) phone: 133 677

Access and Inclusion team
Phone: 03 8470 8327
Email: disability.access@darebin.vic.gov.au

Customer Service team
Phone: 03 8470 8888
Email: mailbox@darebin.vic.gov.au