Let there be access to all

Wed, 26 September 2018

Access to knowledge and information has the power to transform people’s lives. Access to printed publications often informs opinions and decisions, enabling full participation in cultural, economic, political and social life.

September 28 is the International Day for Universal Access to Information, a UNESCO campaign for the world’s citizens to make better and more informed decisions about their lives with access to the best of information.

People with visual, physical or cognitive impairments, learning difficulties or low literacy have an equal right and need to consume print media, but don't enjoy the same ready access, as other Australians.

Today, we celebrate the RPH Radio Reading Network, as the only radio service dedicated to providing access to published materials to the estimated 5 million Australians with a print disability.

The Radio Reading services in our Network are not-for-profit community media organisations dedicated to providing a voice for people with a print disability and catering directly to their information needs and interests. Powered by the passion and dedication of over 1,500 dedicated volunteers, the Radio Reading Network broadcasts to 70% of the Australian population, with 18 AM/FM community radio services around Australia, as well as digital radio services in the five mainland capitals.

The Radio Reading Network is community media produced by and for people with a print disability, helping to build an inclusive and connected Australia. We work to provide universal access to information all day every day. Marilyn Alborough, CEO, RPH Australia.

Whatever our circumstances, age, occupation and abilities, we all rely on access to information to find out what is happening in the world, to make informed decisions about our lives, and to enrich our lives. In providing access to a wide range of current print media news, commentary, literature and recreational reading, the RPH Radio Reading Network informs, entertains and connects listeners to their communities and the wider world. Alastair McEwin, Disability Discrimination Commissioner, Australian Human Rights Commission.

I thank and congratulate the Radio Reading Network for the wonderful service its broadcasters, staff and volunteers provide to the print disability community.  For people who are blind, vision impaired or have a disability or literacy issues making it difficult to read printed material, the Radio Reading Network provides an invaluable service. Alastair McEwin.

Whether we are journalists or farmers, whether we are doctors, nurses or librarians, whether we’re artists, whether we are employed or unemployed, access to information is really critical currency for us to survive in the modern world. UNESCO