The Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia (ASSA) is committed to ensuring universal access to its web site and online services, consistent with the W3C Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and recognised usability principles for ease of use. Wherever possible, we have tried to find an approach to layout, design and behaviour that best addresses the individual needs of people across various types of disabilities, and different age groups. Our focus is on keeping it simple, so that people can quickly find and use the information they require.
A 'Skip to content' link has been provided in the top right of every page. This link jumps over navigation elements and headers, taking the user directly to the start of the main content.
A consistent page structure is maintained across all content on ASSA's website. Each page is formatted using a standard design template that divides information into logical groups. The source order of information from top of page is:
There are 9 main content areas on ASSA's website, with content grouped into sub sections beneath each. The top level categories are:
Please refer to the site map for a more comprehensive overview of the site architecture.
These have been kept to a minimum due to conflicts that may arise with existing browser and system keyboard shortcuts. Links with access keys include:
ASSA's site has been coded using semantic HTML markup, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). A small amount of Javascript has also been used to create pop-up widows for "Table of contents" on the Dialogue publications. However, the pages are still fully accessible if you prefer to have Javascript turned off or pop-ups disabled.
Font sizes are relative and will appear larger or smaller depending on the user's personal preferences. These preferences can be adjusted by changing your browser accessibility options or using a personal style sheet.
For more information, or assistance in accessing the ASSA website, please contact: