Read time: 1 minute 20 seconds

Audio description opens up new markets and audiences for your work.

From people with vision disability to people relaxing at the end of a busy day. Audio description can also be useful for people with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

  • Lyla-Mae is using the audio option to listen to a film to relax at the end of the day.
  • Jo listens to audio options because moving images are distracting.

Audio description is an additional commentary that describes on-screen or on-stage action, body language and facial expressions.

For example, a character looking shocked at something another character is doing.

Audio description is available in:

  • television
  • video and DVD
  • cinemas
  • museums and galleries
  • theatres
  • sports venues.

Steps to take

  1. Take a look at the audio description decision tree (Vision Australia)
  2. Read the guidelines for audio description (American Council of the Blind)
  3. Arrange information in a logical order.
  4. Avoid background noise and music.
  5. Use voices that are appropriate to the subject matter and audience.
  6. Give people time to understand calls to action.

Supporting resource

Page last updated: 22 June 2021