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What is the Accessible Canada Act (ACA)?
The Accessible Canada Act (ACA) is a federal law aimed at eliminating barriers and ensuring full accessibility across Canada by 2040. Before its implementation, Canada lacked a nationwide accessibility regulation. The ACA was developed following extensive consultations led by the Office for Disabilities, gathering public input on essential accessibility requirements.
The ACA sets the foundation for an inclusive and barrier-free society by addressing accessibility challenges in various sectors and ensuring equitable participation for individuals with disabilities.
Who Must Comply with the ACA?
The Accessible Canada Act applies to federally regulated organizations, including:
- Government departments and agencies
- Parliament and Crown corporations
- Banking and financial institutions
- Telecommunication providers
- Transportation services
- Private businesses under federal jurisdiction
These organizations must develop and implement accessibility strategies to remove barriers, improve digital and physical accessibility, and create a more inclusive experience for employees and customers alike.
Key Requirements of the ACA
Key Requirements of the ACA
To comply with the ACA, organizations must:
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Develop Accessibility Plans
Establish a roadmap for identifying and addressing accessibility barriers.
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Implement Barrier-Free Policies
Ensure services, digital platforms, and workplaces are inclusive.
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Regularly Monitor & Report
Publish progress reports detailing accessibility improvements.
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Engage with Individuals with Disabilities
Involve stakeholders in shaping accessibility initiatives.
Why is ACA Compliance Important?
Legal Compliance
Aligns with federal accessibility laws and prevents non-compliance penalties.
Inclusive Work & Service Environment
Enhances accessibility for employees and customers with disabilities.
Improved Digital & Physical Access
Ensures websites, mobile applications, and workplaces are barrier-free.
Future-Proofing Accessibility
Prepares organizations for evolving accessibility regulations and best practices.
Achieve ACA Compliance with Accessibility Experts
At Accessible Minds, we help organizations navigate ACA compliance through accessibility audits, remediation, and strategic consulting. Our team ensures your digital platforms, services, and business operations meet the highest accessibility standards.
Contact Us Today to Ensure Full ACA Compliance!
What is the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA)?
The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is a landmark provincial legislation passed in 2005 to identify, remove, and prevent barriers faced by people with disabilities across Ontario. The AODA’s goal is to make Ontario fully accessible by 2025, setting a clear framework for public, private, and non-profit organizations to follow.
Before the AODA, accessibility standards varied widely across sectors. This Act marked a critical shift—requiring organizations to proactively implement accessibility in all aspects of their services, facilities, and digital platforms.
Who Must Comply with the AODA?
The AODA applies to all organizations in Ontario that provide goods, services, or facilities to the public or to other businesses, including:
- Ontario public sector institutions
- Large and small private-sector businesses
- Non-profit organizations
- Educational institutions
- Healthcare and public transport providers
These entities are legally required to comply with AODA standards based on their size and sector, with strict deadlines and reporting requirements to ensure accountability.
Key Requirements of the AODA
Key Requirements of the AODA
To comply with the AODA, organizations must implement standards in five key areas:
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Customer Service Standard
Ensure services are accessible to people with disabilities, including service animals, support persons, and alternative communication formats.
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Information and Communications Standard
Make websites, digital content, and public information accessible, including closed captioning and screen reader compatibility.
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Employment Standard
Provide accessible hiring practices, workplace accommodations, and support for employees with disabilities.
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Transportation Standard
Improve accessibility in public transit and related services.
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Design of Public Spaces Standard
Ensure outdoor public areas like parking lots, pathways, and service counters are physically accessible.
Additionally, organizations must:
- Develop and file annual Accessibility Compliance Reports
- Train staff on accessibility standards and inclusive practices
- Establish accessibility policies and a multi-year accessibility plan
- Involve individuals with disabilities in consultation and planning
Why is AODA Compliance Important?
Legal Requirement
AODA is a mandatory law in Ontario. Non-compliance can result in financial penalties and reputational harm.
Inclusive Culture
Fosters a welcoming environment for employees, customers, and community members with disabilities.
Enhanced Digital & Physical Accessibility
Improves user experience across websites, apps, facilities, and services.
Supports Ontario’s 2025 Goal
Helps build a province where every resident can participate fully, independently, and with dignity.
Achieve AODA Compliance with Accessibility Experts
At Accessible Minds, we empower organisations to meet AODA standards through comprehensive accessibility testing, digital remediation, training, and strategic support. Whether you’re a small business or a large institution, our experts guide you through every step—from audits and implementation to documentation and reporting.
Ensure Your Organisation is AODA Compliant by 2025. Contact Us Today for Expert Accessibility Support!
