Media Release - Human Rights Commission to Inquire into accessibility of mobile phones for deaf people (1999)

NEWS RELEASE

6th September 1999

Human Rights Commission to Inquire into accessibility of mobile phones for deaf people

Interference from digital mobile phones can be so severe that some people who use hearing aids are unable to use them and can therefore be denied access to mobile phone services.

Today the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, in consultation with relevant parties, announced a public inquiry into the issue. The Inquiry has been prompted by a representative complaint made under the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) lodged by the Deafness Council of NSW on behalf of people who use hearing aids or cochlear implants. The complaint deals with both services and equipment.

The DDA makes discrimination unlawful regarding access to goods, services (including mobile phones) and facilities, except where providing non-discriminatory access would involve unjustifiable hardship.

"There are technical solutions available to address this problem but information is not yet widely available. The new technology may involve additional costs for consumers", said Acting Disability Discrimination Commissioner, Chris Sidoti. "Through the public inquiry process we hope to publicise the efforts being made to address the issue of accessible mobile phones for the hearing impaired. We want community and industry views about better access to solutions.

"Our aim is to help people meet the objects of the DDA and the service obligations of the Telecommunications Act."

The public inquiry is an opportunity for consumers, industry and regulators to present their views on the most effective solutions. The Inquiry will help the Commissioner decide how to finalise the particular complaint.

Submissions to the inquiry will close on the 29th October 1999.

The notice of inquiry  is available on our website.

For further information  please contact Erin Broderick on 02 9284 9880 or 0419 258 597.