What does it mean for information to be accessible for people with disability? An information accessibility conceptual framework

Information accessibility is an important right of people with disability. Much information is increasingly provided in audio, Braille, a variety of different national sign languages, Easy Read, Easy English and screen-reader accessible formats. However, what does it really mean for information to be accessible, going beyond format type to consider the broader concept/construct of information accessibility? This paper uses data from 17 Australian accessible information provider organisations about what information accessibility means. The paper offers a conceptual framework, highlighting that for information to be accessible, the following questions must be carefully considered: Who is the information for? How is the information made? How is the information found? How is the information used? When is the information trusted? The paper discusses how this conceptual framework is useful for bringing together different disciplinary perspectives on information accessibility and offering a framework that brings together technical/operational aspects and lived experiences within society.