People with a disability, and those with a medical condition may have different needs to other Australians. We advise the government about helping people make the most of the phone services they want and need.

In Australia, this intention to provide equal access to services and equipment is backed up by discrimination and telecommunications legislation:

• Disability Discrimination Act 1992
• Telecommunications (Consumer Protection and Service Standards) Act 1999
• Telecommunications (Equipment for the Disabled) Regulations 1998
• Telecommunications Act 1997

People can use Australia’s phone services in a way that best suits them. Options include using specialised phone equipment or the National Relay Service.