Novita Children's Services

Grant round: 2010

Read more: The Newell Network: A Web 2.0 Approach to Information About Accessible Telecoms for People with...

Brotherhood of St. Laurence 

Grant round: 2010 

Read more: Youth Advocates

Council on the Ageing WA

Grant round: 2010 

Read more: Where Do I Start? Female Seniors and the Internet

Institute for Social Research, Swinburne University

Grant round: 2010

Read more: Home Internet for Indigenous Consumers in Remote Australia

Able Australia Services

Grant round: 2010 

Read more: Telecommunications and Deafblind Australians

Cyberspace Law and Policy Centre, University of New South Wales

Grant round: 2010

Read more: Communications Privacy Complaints: In Search of the Right Path

National Ethnic Disability Alliance (NEDA)

Grant round: 2010

Read more: Communicating Difference: Understanding Communications Consumers from Non English Speaking...

Grant recipient: WA Deaf Society

Grant round: 2010 

Read more: Internet Scams: How to Protect Yourself

What is Foxtel Play?

Foxtel Play is a subscription video on demand service provider that allows consumers to watch video entertainment online. Key information about this provider includes:

• The service is operated by Foxtel, Australia’s largest pay television provider
  
  
• The content is largely a selection of videos aired on Foxtel’s pay television service.

How can I join and play videos using Foxtel Play?

To join Foxtel Play, you will need a credit or debit card.

1. Go to the Foxtel Play website
   
   
2. Select the ‘Get your 2 week free trial now’ button
   
   
3. Follow the on-screen prompts
   
   

Note: If you do not want to be charged for using the Foxtel service, you will need to cancel before the end of your 2-week free trial.

To watch Foxtel Play, you will need a device that is:

• Connected to the internet
  
  
• Capable of running a web browser or a Foxtel Play app
  
  

Devices can include:

• Smart TV
  
  
• Game console
  
  
• Smartphone or tablet
  
  
• Desktop or laptop computer
  
  

Specific information can be found on the Foxtel Play home page.

What accessibility features are common to playing videos online?

There are two main features that support the playback of online videos in an accessible way:

• Captions: this is the text version of speech and other sound that can be provided on videos. Captions can be either open (which means the captions are always on) or closed (which allows the consumer to turn the captions on or off).
  
  
• Audio description: this is when spoken narration is used to describe visual content. Narration is usually included between bits of dialogue and can be used to describe visual elements such as scenes, settings, actions and costumes.
  
  

In addition, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has produced the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 to make sure that creators of web and app content can include accessibility features such as captions, audio description and an accessible interface for assistive technology users. A simplified version of this standard is also available.

How accessible is Foxtel Play?

According to research conducted by Curtin University, Perth:

• Closed captions are currently not available on this Foxtel service.
  
  
• Audio described content is currently not available on this Foxtel service.
  
  
• The website and apps on devices such as tablets are not entirely WCAG 2.0 compliant, meaning that some users are likely to experience difficulties in finding and playing video content with their assistive technologies.

What tips and tricks can I use to overcome the accessibility barriers on Foxtel Play?

Here are some tips and tricks provided by consumers that have used Foxtel Play to maximise your accessibility:

• Try a different device: consumers have indicated that some platforms may be easier to use with assistive technologies than others. For example, if you are having difficulty with the website, the app on an Android-based tablet or an iOS device such as an iPad may work better with the device’s built-in accessibility features
  
  
• Watch Foxtel pay television instead: the broadcast channels of Foxtel provide closed caption content, and as such this may be a better alternative than the streaming service if there are specific shows you enjoy that are only available on Foxtel.

Are there more accessible video on demand services available?

There are a number of different subscription video on demand services available to consumers, and these services offer different accessible content. With most services offering some form of free trial, it may be worth testing a service to determine which one works best for you. In addition to this tip sheet, Curtin University has also created tip sheets for Stan, Presto, Quickflix and Netflix Australia.

The video I want to play is not accessible. What can I do?

If you are unable to find or play a video due to accessibility issues, there are a number of steps you can take to voice your concerns. Please refer to the Video on Demand Subscription Services: Accessibility and Your Consumer Rights tip sheet created by Curtin University as part of this series or follow the links in the help section below.

Where can I get additional help and information?

For additional help regarding Foxtel Play, you can go to Foxtel Play Support. There are also opportunities for consumers to discuss service issues.

The operation of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network is made possible by funding provided by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. This funding is recovered from charges on telecommunications carriers.

What is Presto?

Presto is a subscription video on demand service provider that allows consumers to watch video entertainment online. Subscription options consist of just TV shows, just movies or both TV shows and movies. Key information about this provider includes:

• Presto is operated as a joint venture between Foxtel and Seven West Media.
  
  
• Presto features some streaming content from Foxtel as well as content from other sources.
  
  
• Subscriptions are monthly and can be cancelled at any time.
  
  
• Movie-only and TV show-only subscriptions are available for a cheaper price than a subscription to both movies and TV shows.
  
  

How can I join and play videos using Presto?

To join Presto, you will need a credit or debit card.

1. Go to the Presto website
   
   
2. Select the ‘Start the one month free trial now’ button
   
   
3. Follow the on-screen prompts
   
   

Note: If you do not want to be charged for using Presto, you will need to cancel before the end of your one-month free trial.

To watch Presto, you will need a device that is:

• Connected to the internet
  
  
• Capable of running a web browser or a Presto app
  
  

Devices can include:

• Smart TV
  
  
• Game console
  
  
• Smartphone or tablet
  
  
• Desktop or laptop computer
  
  

Specific information can be found on the Presto Devices page

What accessibility features are common to playing videos online?

There are two main features that support the playback of online videos in an accessible way:

• Captions: this is the text version of speech and other sound that can be provided on videos. Captions can be either open (which means the captions are always on) or closed (which allows the consumer to turn the captions on or off).
  
  
• Audio description: this is when spoken narration is used to describe visual content. Narration is usually included between bits of dialogue and can be used to describe visual elements such as scenes, settings, actions and costumes.
  
  

In addition, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has produced the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 to make sure that creators of web and app content can include accessibility features such as captions, audio description and an accessible interface for assistive technology users. A simplified version of this standard is also available.

How accessible is Presto?

According to research conducted by Curtin University, Perth:

• Closed captions are currently not available on Presto.
  
  
• Audio described content is currently not available on Presto.
  
  
• The website and apps on devices such as tablets are not entirely WCAG 2.0 compliant, meaning that some users are likely to experience difficulties in finding and playing video content with their assistive technologies.

What tips and tricks can I use to overcome the accessibility barriers on Presto?

Here are some tips and tricks provided by consumers that have used Presto to maximise your accessibility:

• Try a different device: consumers have indicated that some platforms may be easier to use with assistive technologies than others. For example, if you are having difficulty with the website, the app on an Android-based tablet or an iOS device such as an iPad may work better with the device’s built-in accessibility features
  
  
• Participate in Presto discussion forums to request closed captions: there are some discussions taking place by consumers requesting closed captions.

Are there more accessible video on demand services available?

There are a number of different subscription video on demand services available to consumers, and these services offer different accessible content. With most services offering some form of free trial, it may be worth testing a service to determine which one works best for you. In addition to this tip sheet, Curtin University has also created tip sheets for Netflix Australia, Stan, Quickflix and Foxtel Play.

The video I want to play is not accessible. What can I do?

If you are unable to find or play a video due to accessibility issues, there are a number of steps you can take to voice your concerns. Please refer to the Video on Demand Subscription Services: Accessibility and Your Consumer Rights tip sheet created by Curtin University as part of this series or follow the links in the help section below.

Where can I get additional help and information?

For additional help regarding Presto, you can go to the Presto Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and contact information page.
The operation of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network is made possible by funding provided by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. This funding is recovered from charges on telecommunications carriers.

What is Quickflix?

Quickflix is a video on demand service provider that allows consumers to watch subscription or premium streaming video entertainment online. Key information about this provider includes:

• Quickflix is one of Australia’s longest established video streaming companies.
  
  
• The video streaming service can consist of either subscription service or a premium pay-as-you-go service.
  
  
• Physical discs, such as Blu-ray and DVD titles, are also available for rent.

How can I join and play videos using Quickflix?

To join Quickflix, you will need a credit or debit card.

1. Go to the Quickflix website
   
   
2. Select the plan you wish to purchase.
   
   
3. Follow the on-screen prompts.
   
   

In addition, searches for Quickflix in Google can reveal bonus offers. There are also offers on the Quickflix site.

To watch Quickflix, you will need a device that is:

• Connected to the internet
  
  
• Capable of running a web browser or a Quickflix app
  
  

Devices can include:

• Smart TV
  
  
• Game console
  
  
• Streaming media player
  
  
• Smartphone or tablet
  
  
• Desktop or laptop computer
  
  

Specific information can be found on the Quickflix Device page.

What accessibility features are common to playing videos online?

There are two main features that support the playback of online videos in an accessible way:

• Captions: this is the text version of speech and other sound that can be provided on videos. Captions can be either open (which means the captions are always on) or closed (which allows the consumer to turn the captions on or off).
  
  
• Audio description: this is when spoken narration is used to describe visual content. Narration is usually included between bits of dialogue and can be used to describe visual elements such as scenes, settings, actions and costumes.
  
  

In addition, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has produced the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 to make sure that creators of web and app content can include accessibility features such as captions, audio description and an accessible interface for assistive technology users. A simplified version of this standard is also available.

How accessible is Quickflix?

According to research conducted by Curtin University, Perth:

• Closed captions are available on some videos if the distributor provides it.
  
  
• Audio description is not available.
  
  
• The website and apps on devices such as tablets are not entirely WCAG 2.0 compliant, meaning that some users are likely to experience difficulties in finding and playing video content with their assistive technologies.

What tips and tricks can I use to overcome the accessibility barriers on Quickflix?

Here are some tips and tricks provided by consumers that have used Quickflix to maximise your accessibility:

• Try a different device: consumers have indicated that some platforms may be easier to use with assistive technologies than others. For example, if you are having difficulty with the website, the app on an Android-based tablet or an iOS device such as an iPad may work better with the device’s built-in accessibility features
  
  
• Use physical discs instead: due to Quickflix having limited captioned content and its difficulty in identifying accessible titles, it may be worth exploring Quickflix’s Blu-ray and DVD titles to locate the captioned or audio described movie you are seeking on a physical disc.
  
  

Are there more accessible video on demand services available?

There are a number of different subscription video on demand services available to consumers, and these services offer different accessible content. With most services offering some form of free trial, it may be worth testing a service to determine which one works best for you. In addition to this tip sheet, Curtin University has also created tip sheets for Netflix Australia, Stan, Presto and Foxtel Play.

The video I want to play is not accessible. What can I do?

If you are unable to find or play a video due to accessibility issues, there are a number of steps you can take to voice your concerns. Please refer to the Video on Demand Subscription Services: Accessibility and Your Consumer Rights tip sheet created by Curtin University as part of this series or follow the links in the help section below.

Where can I get additional help and information?

For additional help regarding Quickflix, you can go to:

• Quickflix Help Centre
  
  
• Quickflix subtitle information
  
  

The operation of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network is made possible by funding provided by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. This funding is recovered from charges on telecommunications carriers.

What is Stan?

Stan is a subscription video on demand service provider that allows consumers to watch video entertainment online. Key information about this provider includes:

• Stan is owned by StreamCo, a joint venture of Nine Entertainment Co. and Fairfax Media.
  
  
• Stan produces some limited original content but most of its content is sourced from others.
  
  
• Subscriptions are based on a 30-day cycle and can be cancelled at any time.
  
  
• Stan allows you to play up to three videos on different devices at the same time.

How can I join and play videos using Stan?

To join Stan, you will need a credit or debit card:

1. Go to the Stan website
   
   
2. In the ‘30 day free trial’ section, enter your e-mail address in the box provided.
   
   
3. Select the ‘Start your free trial’ button.
   
   
4. Follow the on-screen prompts.
   

Note: If you do not want to be charged for using Stan, you will need to cancel before the end of your 30-day free trial.

To watch Stan, you will need a device that is:

• Connected to the internet
  
  
• Capable of running a web browser or a Stan app
  
  

Such devices can include:

• Smart TV
  
  
• Blu-ray player
  
  
• Game console
  
  
• Streaming media player
  
  
• Smartphone or tablet
  
  
• Desktop or laptop computer
  
  

Specific information can be found on the Stan Devices page.

What accessibility features are common to playing videos online?

There are two main features that support the playback of online videos in an accessible way:

• Captions: this is the text version of speech and other sound that can be provided on videos. Captions can be either open (which means the captions are always on) or closed (which allows the consumer to turn the captions on or off).
  
  
• Audio description: this is when spoken narration is used to describe visual content. Narration is usually included between bits of dialogue and can be used to describe visual elements such as scenes, settings, actions and costumes.
  
  

In addition, the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) has produced the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 to make sure that creators of web and app content can include accessibility features such as captions, audio description and an accessible interface for assistive technology users. A simplified version of this standard is also available.

How accessible is Stan?

According to research conducted by Curtin University, Perth:

• Closed captions are available on some videos, first introduced in January 2016.
  
  
• Audio description is not available.
  
  
• The website and apps on devices such as tablets are not entirely WCAG 2.0 compliant, meaning that some users are likely to experience difficulties in finding and playing video content with their assistive technologies.

What tips and tricks can I use to overcome the accessibility barriers on Stan?

Here are some tips and tricks provided by consumers that have used Stan to maximise your accessibility:

• Try a different device: consumers have indicated that some platforms may be easier to use with assistive technologies than others. For example, if you are having difficulty with the website, the app on an Android-based tablet or an iOS device such as an iPad may work better with the device’s built-in accessibility features.
  
  
• Searching and ‘CC’: to find a video with closed captions, perform a video search and look for the ‘CC’ icon in the search results. If the ‘CC’ icon is present, the video has closed captions.
  
  
• Enabling captions: captions can be turned on by selecting the ‘CC’ button on the video. This button will only display closed captions if they are available.

Are there more accessible video on demand services available?

There are a number of different subscription video on demand services available to consumers, and these services offer different accessible content. With most services offering some form of free trial, it may be worth testing a service to determine which one works best for you. In addition to this tip sheet, Curtin University has also created tip sheets for Netflix Australia, Presto, Quickflix and Foxtel Play.

The video I want to play is not accessible. What can I do?

If you are unable to find or play a video due to accessibility issues, there are a number of steps you can take to voice your concerns. Please refer to the Video on Demand Subscription Services: Accessibility and Your Consumer Rights tip sheet created by Curtin University as part of this series or follow the links in the help section below.

Where can I get additional help and information?

For additional help regarding Stan, you can go to:

• Stan Help
  
  
• Stan closed captions information
  
  
• Stan introduction of closed captions announcement
  
  

The operation of the Australian Communications Consumer Action Network is made possible by funding provided by the Commonwealth of Australia under section 593 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. This funding is recovered from charges on telecommunications carriers.