Accessibility in Canada: AODA and ACA
What Is AODA?
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is a major accessibility law in Ontario, Canada. Passed in 2005, AODA aims to build a barrier-free Ontario by 2025. It focuses on removing obstacles for people with disabilities in areas like:
- Employment
- Goods and services
- Transportation
- Information and communication
AODA applies to public, private, and non-profit organizations operating in Ontario.
What Is the Accessible Canada Act (ACA)?
The Accessible Canada Act (ACA) is a federal law that complements AODA by ensuring accessibility across all of Canada. Enacted in 2019, ACA focuses on federally regulated industries such as:
- Government websites and services
- Banking and telecommunications
- Transportation and broadcasting
Together, AODA and ACA help ensure digital and physical spaces across Canada are accessible to everyone.
AODA, ACA, and Web Accessibility
Both AODA and ACA recognize that the internet is a vital part of everyday life. That’s why they emphasize the need for web accessibility.
To comply with these laws, organizations must:
- Follow web accessibility standards like WCAG 2.0 AA (as required by AODA)
- Ensure their websites are usable by people with various disabilities
- Make ongoing improvements to stay compliant as standards evolve
This approach reflects a growing understanding that digital access is a basic right-not a luxury.
AODA (Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act) Explained in Simple Terms
This video explains how the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) ensures digital accessibility by breaking down its core principles for all viewers to understand easily.
Four Key AODA Website Accessibility Practices
Comprehend AODA Standards
Understand the guidelines and requirements set forth by the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).
Regular Accessibility Audits
Conduct routine audits of your website to identify and address any accessibility barriers, ensuring compliance with AODA standards.
Team Training on Accessibility
Provide training to your website team members to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to create and maintain accessible web content.
Establish Accessibility Policies
Implement clear policies within your organization that prioritize accessibility in website design, development, and content creation, aligning with AODA.
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