Is Your Website Accessible? Government Compliance Requirements You Need to Know in 2025

Many websites today are built without considering users who are visually impaired, hearing impaired, or navigating with assistive devices. Worse, many business owners are unaware their site may be legally non-compliant. As accessibility standards become more regulated, your business can’t afford to ignore inclusive design. What may cost a little more upfront could save you legal risk — and dramatically expand your audience.

Why Website Accessibility Matters in 2025

1 in 4 adults in the United States and Australia has a disability. These users rely on features like screen readers, keyboard navigation, and clear structure to navigate the web. Accessibility is no longer optional — it’s expected by customers and required by legislation like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.2).

Key Elements of an Accessible Website

1. Use of Alt Tags

Alt tags describe images for screen readers, helping visually impaired users understand visual content.

2. Proper Headings & HTML Structure

Use semantic HTML tags like <h1> to <h6>, <nav>, <main>, <section> to support screen readers and keyboard navigation.

3. Caption Tags in Tables

Table captions offer context for data sets, improving clarity for users using assistive tech.

4. Keyboard-Friendly Navigation

All site features must be accessible using only a keyboard — especially forms, links, and menus.

5. Media Captions

Provide closed captions and transcripts for videos and audio content to support deaf or hard-of-hearing users.

6. Avoid Flashing Elements

Avoid rapid flashing or strobe effects that may trigger seizures or discomfort.

7. ARIA Labels

Use ARIA (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) tags to describe dynamic elements like buttons or sliders.

Testing and Compliance Tools

You can test your website’s accessibility with tools like:

• WAVE Accessibility Tool
• Google Lighthouse Audit
• Color Oracle (for color blindness simulation)
• Screen Reader Testing (VoiceOver, NVDA)

The WCAG 2.2 standard breaks down accessibility for visual, auditory, cognitive, physical, and speech disabilities. It's the gold standard for compliance.

Graham Agency: Accessibility-Focused Web Design

We design and build websites with accessibility in mind from day one. Whether you're redesigning your existing site or starting fresh, we’ll ensure you're meeting the latest compliance standards — and creating inclusive digital experiences for all users.

• Accessibility audits and reports
• WCAG 2.2 and ADA compliance
• Inclusive UX and UI design
• Development with semantic HTML and ARIA roles
• Training and support for ongoing accessibility management

Client Projects Where Accessibility Matters

One of our clients is Sydney’s leading hospital and nonprofit foundation. This essential institution supports advanced eye care, funds life-changing surgeries, and drives vital research and innovation across New South Wales.

It is especially critical in this industry, where many users have sight disabilities, that all material provided to the public meets high standards of visibility and accessibility.

We make sure everything we produce is fully accessible and compliant. Every campaign, piece of content, and communication we create for them meets strict accessibility standards to ensure inclusivity and legal compliance.

Learn more about this project and how we support critical healthcare organizations through accessible, compliant content.

Medical client case study

Ready to Make Your Website Accessible?

Let’s make your digital presence inclusive, compliant, and future-ready. We offer accessibility audits and fully compliant website solutions for businesses across Australia and the USA.

Book a Free Accessibility Review