It is estimated that only 3 to 5% of printed information is accessible to persons who are blind or who have low vision. This lack of information access, significantly impacts upon students in the tertiary education environment where there is both a requirement for a breadth of research in academic curriculum, as well as an emphasis on independent learning.

Vision Australia recognises that information access is one of the most significant barriers facing post secondary students who are blind or who have low vision - impacting upon pedagogy, class participation and the richness of the educational experience. Vision Australia offers clients a range of training and support services to aide the transition and increase the participation in further education. There is significant work currently being undertaken internationally to automate the production of alternate format material in Sweden by TPP which will significantly improve the time delays and educational outcomes for students in the tertiary sector.

This presentation will outline the global initiatives and trends which Vision Australia is proactively seeking to implement within the Australian educational landscape. Focusing on the current initiatives of the automation of alternate formats in other areas, the future will be painted for the student with a print disability.