13 February 2004 Media Statement
Public sector websites to be more accessible
Public sector websites will become much more accessible with the adoption of an approved set of web guidelines across
the public sector, State Services Minister Trevor Mallard announced today.
Trevor Mallard described the move as a significant step toward improving access to government information and services
for all New Zealanders.
The main focus of the New Zealand Government Web Guidelines, issued by the State Services Commission’s E-government
Unit, is to ensure that government websites take into consideration older technology and software, slow connections to
the Internet, and people with disabilities. They also promote consistent use of Mâori language and sensible approaches
to website design.
“Anyone with the ability to connect to the Internet, irrespective of his or her social, economic or physical situation,
should be able to access any or all of the information and services the government makes available. These guidelines
will help make that possible,” Trevor Mallard said.
The government has directed public service departments to comply with the guidelines. State sector organisations are
strongly encouraged to follow suit, and local government and private sector are also invited to adopt the guidelines.
“Really, whether an organisation is a department, a crown entity or local authority is largely irrelevant when you are
wanting to ensure equal access to public websites and their contents. The guidelines represent best practice in this
area and should be applicable to any website – public or private.
“The uptake of the guidelines will be carefully monitored to ensure they are flexible and responsive to people's needs
and will be reviewed periodically to account for evolving technologies.
"It's important that these guidelines promote accessibility and remain oriented towards providing a good service to all
New Zealanders,” Trevor Mallard said
View the Guidelines at: http://www.e-government.govt.nz/web-guidelines/
Details of the Cabinet decisions are available at:
ENDS