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Learn the fundamentals of how to create accessible Word and PDF documents in this highly interactive computer-based course.

Suitable for anyone who uses Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat Pro DC, we’ll teach you how to ensure your digital documents are accessible to everyone, including people with disabilities.

Developed in accordance with WCAG 2.1 and best practices cultivated by our team of experts, this training is aligned with the Australian Government’s Digital Service Standard.

Our virtual training is live and interactive with an experienced instructor and runs as 2-hour sessions over 4 weeks.

Each attendee requires access to a desktop or laptop computer with a good internet connection and a headset or microphone and speakers. Instructions for Zoom will be sent with the invitation. You will receive a copy of the handbook and instructions via email before the first training session. 

*Please Note: If you register to complete the Creating Accessible Documents training online, you will require Microsoft Word (at least 2010 for PC or 2016 for Mac OS) and Adobe Acrobat PDF (DC preferred or 10/11) installed on your computer to take part in remote training. If you do not have these already, you may be able to install trial versions (subject to the software owner’s agreement). Please bear this in mind when choosing to attend a remote version of this training.

Testimonials:

"The material was well organised and there were many excellent examples to illustrate the important points. The presenter seemed very knowledgeable about the subject and answered questions fully, without diverting from the planned timeline. I got a good understanding of the key concerns relating to producing accessible documents and discovered areas where my colleagues and I need to change our practices." Howard, AEC

"I have done a lot of accessibility work in my role, and become a "go-to" person on accessibility questions and checking our documents. I am delighted to say I have learned a whole lot more doing this course. I look forward to applying my new knowledge and skills to make our documents accessible to everyone." Petrina, NDIA

"This training gave me a much deeper understanding of not only how to make PDF and Word documents accessible, but it also provided insight into the user experience when things are not accessible. I found that invaluable. The course was taught in a straightforward, systematic way with lots of examples for practice and time for questions. It was very clear that the teacher understood this subject through and through. Accessibility is so important. Every business and organisation needs to have this understanding, and so I fully recommend taking this course." Carey S. 

"As the learning support person for a high school student who is legally blind, I found the course extremely useful and insightful. I hope to be able to help make my student's learning materials easier to access. I also hope to be able to spot which websites are accessible and which ones are not user friendly for my student."

"The course was well presented, practical and covered a wide range of topics, giving participants a strong foundation in creating accessible documents.  Well worth it." Brenda L. Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

Dates and registration links:

Please follow the date links to register for the training session of your choice:

Tuesdays 10.00 am to 12.00 pm AEDT

Wednesdays 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm AEDT

2025

Wednesdays 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm AEDT

Wednesdays 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm AEDT

Wednesdays 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm AEST

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Course Content

This highly comprehensive course was designed for a general audience – no prior knowledge of accessibility is required. Taught on PCs, a basic working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat is recommended.

1. Background to document accessibility

  • How inaccessible documents affect different disability groups
  • How people use assistive technologies to access content within digital documents
  • Australian legal requirements
  • Applicability of WCAG 2.1 standards to electronic documents
  • Techniques to create accessible electronic documents
  • Language
  • Use of colours
  • Text format
  • Links
  • Layout

2. Techniques for accessible Word documents

  • Images and alternative text
  • Headings
  • Lists
  • Tables
  • Columns
  • Tables of content
  • Text boxes

3. Converting Word documents to PDFs

  • Use the built-in PDF maker
  • Configure the PDF maker for accessibility
  • Test the resulting PDF for accessibility

4. Advanced techniques for accessible PDF documents

  • Create, modify and check tags
  • Test and correct the reading order
  • Associate images with alt text
  • Edit document properties
  • Add bookmarks
  • Use the TouchUp Reading Order tool

Course Materials

You’ll receive a comprehensive digital manual containing:

  • Step-by-step instructions on how to implement techniques using Microsoft Office and Adobe Acrobat.
  • The rationale for using specific techniques and positive impacts for the end-user.
  • Explanations, examples, tips and tricks to help you apply accessible practices day-to-day.

Cost:

Full Fees

  • $795 including GST per registration

Group Discount (over four attendees)

  • $725 including GST per registration

Course Enquiries

Email: [email protected]