24 July 2001
Westpac commended for
improving
access to services
Disability Discrimination Commissioner Dr Sev Ozdowski has welcomed Westpac's commitment to improving access to banking services and employment opportunities for people with a disability.
Dr Ozdowski was today presented with a copy of Westpac's Action Plan under the federal Disability Discrimination Act.
"The completion of this Action Plan is an important event for Westpac customers and employees," said Dr Ozdowski. "Westpac's plan demonstrates a creative and forward-thinking approach to ensuring that people with a disability are able to enjoy the same access to banking services as other Australians."
"A recent national inquiry conducted by the Commission highlighted that older Australians and people with a disability are increasingly being left on the wrong side of the digital divide when it comes to banking and e-commerce."
Practical initiatives outlined in Westpac's Disability Action Plan include the introduction of talking ATMs for people with a vision impairment, physically accessible Internet Kiosks in local branches and community education seminars to assist people improve their access to banking services.
Dr Ozdowski also commended Westpac for its commitment to providing employment opportunities to people with a disability.
"Employers cannot afford to overlook the wealth of skills, talent and ability that people with a disability can provide. I trust other businesses will follow the lead of Westpac in this area," he said.
Westpac's Disability Action Plan can be viewed at: http://www.humanrights.gov.au/disability_rights/action_plans/index.html
Media Contact: Janine MacDonald (02) 9284 9880 or 0412 783 631
