How to make sure your printed publications reach the widest range of people.
- Kris has dyslexia. Kris finds the structure of printed documents helps to process information.
- Marlee lives in Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara. Access to internet connection is limited. Marlee just needs to grasp key information quickly. Marlee doesn't have time to read complex publications.
- Kala has a learning disability. Kala needs to be able to understand information about their university admission. People with learning disability need access to all types of information. Not just disability-specific information.
- Tony is on home detention and unable to access the internet. A printed guide helps Tony understand important information about home detention rules.
Steps to take
- Read Vision Australia's guide to inclusive print design and legibility.
- Use plain language. If your publication is easy to read it helps more people understand what to do. This includes people with lower reading comprehension.
- Use pictures and diagrams where appropriate.
- Use a plain, sans serif font, such as:
- Arial
- Calibri
- Helvetica
- Century
- Gothic
- Verdana
- Make sure there is significant colour contrast between the text and the background.
- Avoid using UPPER CASE, underlining and italics.
- Use a minimum of 12 point type size for all text. For large print documents, use a minimum 18 point type size.
- Use uncluttered text with no background graphics, patterns and watermarks.
- Left align text.
- Use bold or larger print for important information.
- Print your publication on matte or satin non-reflective paper.
Providing alternative formats
- Make sure all printed material is available on request in alternative formats.
- Include a statement informing readers of this. For example “this publication is available in alternative formats (such as online, audio tape or braille), on request from people with disability.”
- Read our guide to accessible PDF and Word documents.
Supporting resources
Page last updated: 22 June 2021