Disability Awareness

People with disabilities have the right to derive the same benefits from museums and galleries as other visitors. For more information refer to the Federal Disability Discrimination Act (DDA), which stipulates that people with disabilities should expect that every area open to the public should be accessible to them. 

It is vital for museums to understand that a disability may not be obvious and indeed can be hidden or temporary.  Disability is experienced across all social groups, genders, ages and communities.  There is no one homogenous experience of disability.  People with a disability have lives as diverse as any other community groups. 

It is important to consult with people with disabilities when investigating and implementing any changes to the building and exhibits.  Some points to be considered are physical access both outside and inside the building.  Consider floor surfaces, they should be as level and as smooth as possible.  Ensure that doorways, access corridors and display areas are wide enough with no obstructions.  Access for people with disabilities includes more than parking facilities and ramps to various areas. 

Ideally information should be available in appropriate formats.  Displays should be at an appropriate height, with adequate lighting with labels in type large enough to be read easily.  Consider the five senses of touch, smell, hearing, sight and taste and endeavour to include some of these elements in displays.

Provision of intellectual, physical and sensory access to exhibits recognises the needs of all visitors and contributes to a more enjoyable museum experience.

References and further readings:

The Western Australian Museum's Website Accessibility Project

Top 3 Tips for Website Accessibility

Museums Australia Inc (NSW), Museum Methods, A Practical Manual for Managing Small Museums, Section 1.13 Meeting the needs of people with disabilities.

Museums and Galleries NSW, Online Resources