Almost 20 per cent of Australians live with disability, so businesses that lack access are missing out on potential customers. It is estimated these customers can increase retail turnover by 20-25 per cent.
As a business owner, you can take simple steps towards welcoming customers of all abilities.
You don’t need to change everything all at once. Show customers you are welcoming by making small changes that make your business more accessible.
Making accessibility improvements doesn't have to be hard
See how other businesses have made accessibility improvements at their premises to welcome customers of all ages and abilities.
Our three steps for success
1. Review your access and inclusion features
There are different ways to review your access and inclusion features. You can choose to do a self-assessment, engage a paid consultant or participate in a free business accessibility program.
See if your business is meeting key access requirements with our accessibility checklists. If your exact business type is not represented below, find one that closely matches.
If you would prefer to engage a consultant, have a look at the providers below and choose the option that best meets your needs. Alternatively, you can search online for “access consultant Perth’.
People with Disabilities WA
Our friends at People with Disabilities WA(open in new window) are running a cost-free program for small businesses.
Tourism Council WA
If you are a member of the Tourism Council of WA (TCWA) you have free access to their Accessible Tourism Program(open in new window). The program provides businesses with a comprehensive online accessibility assessment.
Businesses that meet the essential criteria can get accredited for accessibility in areas of:
- Cognitive/autism
- Limited mobility
- Low hearing
- Low vision
- Wheelchairs and scooters.
2. Make improvements
The results of your self-assessment or consultant report will tell you how to make your business more accessible and inclusive. Remember, you don’t have to make all the changes at once. It’s about taking simple steps towards welcoming customers of all abilities.
3. Promote your accessible and inclusive business
Promoting your accessibility features helps raise community awareness and sets you apart.
Update your Google Business Profile and use your social media platforms to promote your accessibility features. Tag local disability services and the City of Swan for greater reach. Check out this article from Google on how to update your Google Business Profile(open in new window).
Contact local disability service providers and let them know about your access and inclusion features. They may just bring their clients into your business.
Finally, send a quick email to business@swan.wa.gov.au and let us know about the great things you are doing with access and inclusion. We love a good news story!