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What is Netflix Australia?
Netflix Australia is a subscription video on demand service provider that allows consumers to watch video entertainment online. Key information about this provider includes:
- Netflix, the parent company of Netflix Australia, operates in over 190 countries around the world, making it one of the largest global online video services.
- Netflix produces original content in addition to streaming the content of others.
- Netflix Australia’s content offers a smaller and different variety of content to Netflix in the United States, but still contains thousands of movies and TV shows available to watch instantly on any device that streams Netflix.
- Subscriptions are monthly and can be cancelled at any time.
How can I join and play videos using Netflix Australia?
To join Netflix Australia, you will need a credit or debit card.
- Go to the Netflix Australia website
- Select the ‘Join free for a month’ button
- Follow the on-screen prompts
Note: If you do not want to be charged for using Netflix Australia, you will need to cancel before the end of your 1-month free trial.
To watch Netflix, you will need a device that is:
- Connected to the internet
- Capable of running a web browser or a Netflix 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 Netflix Australia 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 Netflix Australia?
According to research conducted by Curtin University, Perth:
- Closed captions are available on most videos.
- Audio description can be found on some videos.
- 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 Netflix Australia?
Here are some tips and tricks provided by consumers that have used Netflix Australia 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.
- Audio description-only link: the web portal has a link that allows you to just view content with audio description. Just log into Netflix Australia, scroll down to the bottom of the webpage and select ‘audio description’.
- Language icon: to select captions and audio description if available in the web portal, search for the video you would like to play, then select the Language icon in the bottom right corner of the video player. You will then find all the available accessibility features.
- More audio description on the way: a settlement between Netflix and the American Council of the Blind (ACB) and Netflix in April 2016 has led to Netflix committing to make changes to its USA service which is likely to improve Netflix Australia. Improvements discussed in the settlement consist of better searching options and a significant improvement in available titles, particularly new titles.
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 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 Netflix Australia, you can go to:
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.
Mobile broadband plans are designed to be used on the go. The SIM card inserts into one device, such as a tablet or phone. For more than one person or device to connect you need to 'hotspot' the device.
It is important to check that provider offers coverage in your house!
You might be eligible to receive the Centrelink Telephone Allowance to help you pay for your phone and internet connection.
If you are eligible you can receive a payment from the Government of either $28.20 or $42.00 every three months.
You can read more information about whether you can get the Centrelink Telephone Allowance by clicking here.
How can I claim the Centrelink Telephone Allowance?
If the Centrelink Telephone Allowance is not already paid to you as a part of your Centrelink payments, and you would like to receive it, or if you are unsure whether you are eligible, you should contact Centrelink.
You can contact Centrelink:
- By phone (click to find the relevant phone number for you)
- By writing, emailing, or sending a fax (click for addresses and fax number)
- Or by visiting a Centrelink office. You can find the closest one to you on this page.
Which is the right telco deal for you?
Finding the right telco deal depends on what your needs are.
In this tip sheet we look at some good value products on the market that may be suitable for voice only and light internet users.
Remember it is a good idea to review your telecommunication services every year or two - if you have been on the same plan for a while, there may be new and better deals available.
Read more: Tips for voice only and light internet users
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Download: ACCAN Magazine - Issue 32 Winter 201911.65 MB
Download accessible version: ACCAN Magazine Issue 32 - Winter 2019 - Accessible Version50.56 KB
Sky Muster and Sky Muster Plus (or nbn’s Satellite Services) provide fast broadband coverage to around 430,000 homes and small businesses across regional, rural and remote Australia and its islands.
The 3rd edition of this extensive, easy to understand guide is now available for download in PDF and Word formats.
It covers topics such as:
Read more: Satellite - Sky Muster Guide 3rd Edition
Write comment (0 Comments)If you are Deaf, or have a hearing impairment or speech impairment, please contact us on 02 9288 4000 through your preferred National Relay Service call number or access point. For more information about the National Relay Service visit the National Relay Service website.
If you want to call us and need an interpreter, please call the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) on 131 450 and ask them to telephone ACCAN on 02 9288 4000.
ACCAN recently commissioned research asking the Australian public about their top concerns when it comes to their communications services.
We surveyed nearly 1000 (n=998) Australians on a range of topics. We asked people about the affordability and reliability of their communications services, their use and trust of public wi-fi, their TV viewing habits and what they do to keep themselves safe on social media, messaging apps and other digital platforms. The results show that in 2022, Australians expect a communications market that is trusted, inclusive, accessible and available for all.
Community Position on the Public Procurement of Accessible Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
ACCAN and a consortium of Disability and Consumer Organisations are calling for a whole-of-government policy for the procurement of accessible information and communications technology (ICT).
Public procurement of accessible ICT, across all levels of government, will ensure that all Australians are able to participate and benefit from our growing digital economy.
Cybercriminals and scammers may defraud you and your customers if they can access personal details. Below are common cybersecurity solutions used by small business owners, and information on what to do if your website is breached.
Read more: Avoiding Website Security Breaches and Other Cybersecurity Tips
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The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) was delighted to hold the 2nd Annual Sue Salthouse Memorial Lecture online at 4:00 pm on Thursday 1st December 2022.
The summary below outlines ACCAN’s activities from 1 September – 30 November 2022.
Desktop computers - Victoria
Supplier (click below) | Is the supplier website screen reader friendly? | Key Words e.g. If the device is new or refurbished, available to buy direct from the supplier or from a third-party marketplace. |
---|---|---|
Acer | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Amazon | Yes | Refurbished, Third-party Marketplace |
Apple | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Australian Computer Traders | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
BPC Tech | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Bufferstock | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Cash Converters | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier, Third-party Marketplace |
Catch.com.au | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier, Third-party Marketplace |
Dell | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier, Third-party Marketplace |
Device Trader | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
eBay | Yes | Refurbished, Third-party Marketplace |
grays.com | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Green Gadgets | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier, Third-party Marketplace |
In the Click | Some Issues | Social enterprise, Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Jessups IT & Computers | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier, Third-party Marketplace |
jw.com.au | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
King IT | Some Issues | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
LFO.com.au | No | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
MegaBuy | No | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Microcomp | No | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Reboot I.T | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Recompute | Some Issues | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
ReloopIT | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier, Third-party Marketplace |
Stock Must Go | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Techno Partners | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Technology Locker | Some Issues | Refurbished, Direct Supplier, Third-party Marketplace |
The Computer Guy | No | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
WorkVentures | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Electronic Recycling Australia | No | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Computerbank | Yes | Community Organisation, Refurbished, Direct Supplier, Low Income, Free |
Flash Drive: Beyond the Classroom | Yes | Community Organisation, Additional training, Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
PCs for Kids | Yes | Community Organisation, Refurbished, Children / Young Australians, Low Income, Free |
STS | No | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
PC Pitstop | No | Refurbished, Third-party Marketplace |
MD Computers Sunshine Coast | Yes | Refurbished, Direct Supplier |
Substation 33 | No | Social enterprise, Refurbished, Students, Third-party Marketplace |
Deakin University
This project will explore how communication is defined and implications for reforms to the laws of information privacy, telecommunications surveillance, and digital markets. The team will conduct focus groups with diverse communities to enhance consumer advocacy and representation in submissions to proposed reforms and improve consumer protections.
The Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) is calling on the Federal Government to implement direct regulation, via a service provider determination, to protect consumers facing domestic and family violence.
ACCAN welcomed the Government’s decision earlier this year to enforce protections for financial hardship. Yet just as financial hardship should not be a reason Australians are forced to go without essential communications services, victim-survivors of domestic and family violence (DFV) should not be cut off from crucial means of communication due to the actions of abusers or as a result of poor practice on the part of service providers.
Read more: Consumers facing domestic and family violence must see better protections
Write comment (0 Comments)Better public information on regulator enforcement is required, according to a new report published by the Centre for Media Transition.
The Centre, an interdisciplinary research unit within the University of Technology Sydney, published The Enforcement of Telecommunications Consumer Protections report, detailing the enforcement actions undertaken by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) from January 2010 to June 2023 to ensure compliance with consumer protections.
Read more: New report on ACMA enforcement shows need for greater information
ACCAN recently submitted to the Senate Select Committee on Adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI).
ACCAN considers that the consumer sector requires greater support to engage with AI and other emerging technologies that will impact consumers. At present there is no consumer group funded to engage with AI and emerging technologies on behalf of consumers. As AI and other emerging technologies become embedded in our societies and markets there are growing risks of harms.
Learning how to use and monitor your download usage effectively is the best protection against high bills. This ACCAN Consumer Meeting will provide information about how to avoid bill shock as well as assistance for case workers advising consumers about how to get redress for any complaints related to download bill shock.
Read more: Consumer Meeting: Bill Shock and Data Downloading