Digital accessibility is no longer just a technical best practice for local councils - it is becoming a governance priority. One of the most significant developments in this shift is AGAR Assertion 10, which places greater emphasis on ensuring that council websites and digital services are accessible to everyone.
Rather than treating accessibility as an isolated IT responsibility, Assertion 10 encourages councils to view it as part of good governance, transparency, and inclusive public service delivery.
What is AGAR Assertion 10?
The Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) is the statutory framework through which eligible local councils and parish meetings demonstrate sound governance and accountability.
Assertion 10 requires councils to confirm that they have taken appropriate steps to ensure their website complies with relevant legal requirements, including accessibility obligations where applicable.
This means councils should not simply publish information online - they should ensure residents can access, understand, and interact with it regardless of disability, age, or the technology they use. Read the document for more information.
Why does Assertion 10 matter?
For many councils, accessibility has historically been addressed only after complaints or compliance reviews. Assertion 10 shifts the focus toward proactive governance.
It encourages councils to:
- Regularly review website accessibility.
- Identify and fix accessibility barriers.
- Maintain accessible public documents.
- Keep accessibility statements up to date.
- Demonstrate ongoing compliance rather than one-time efforts.
This creates a more structured and accountable approach to digital accessibility.
How is Assertion 10 driving change?
- Accessibility becomes a governance responsibility
Accessibility is no longer solely the responsibility of website administrators. Council leadership, clerks, and governance teams must now ensure accessibility is embedded into digital decision-making and annual governance processes.
- Better website maintenance
Many councils are introducing regular accessibility reviews instead of waiting until websites become outdated or non-compliant. Routine monitoring identify issues before they affect residents.
- Greater focus on accessible documents
Meeting agendas, minutes, policies, annual reports, and financial documents are among the most frequently accessed council resources. Assertion 10 is encouraging councils to replace inaccessible PDFs with properly structured, accessible documents whenever possible.
- Improved public trust
Accessible digital services enable more residents including older adults and people with disabilities to participate in local government, access information independently, and engage with community services. This strengthens transparency and public confidence.
Can Accessibility Solutions be additional help?
Yes, they can be at times.
While accessibility widget can enhance usability by providing features such as text resizing, color contrast adjustments, screen reading assistance, keyboard navigation, and multilingual support, they should complement – not replace – accessibility audits and remediation.
A comprehensive accessibility strategy combines technical compliance, accessible content creation, regular testing, and user-focused enhancements to deliver an inclusive digital experience.
Turning AGAR Assertion 10 Into Long-Term Digital Inclusion
AGAR Assertion 10 represents more than a compliance requirement - it reflects a growing expectation that local councils deliver digital services that are accessible, inclusive, and accountable. As websites, online forms, and public documents continue to evolve, accessibility must become an ongoing governance practice rather than an annual checklist.
Skynet Technologies helps local councils embed accessibility into every stage of their digital journey through WCAG accessibility audit, website remediation, accessibility consulting, VPAT report / ACR services, and ongoing compliance support.
By taking a proactive approach to accessibility, councils can not only strengthen their readiness for AGAR Assertion 10 but also create digital experiences that enable every resident to access essential information and services.
Contact us and let us know your digital requirements. Our team will help to fill the gap and build an inclusive digital environment.
