Disability Apps Challenge Shortlist

A range of apps that help people with disability and older Australians perform activities such as measuring the running cost of household appliances have been shortlisted in the Apps For All Challenge 2014 Telstra Prize.

The shortlist for the inaugural Australian Communications Consumer Action Network (ACCAN) and Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) Apps For All Challenge 2014 Telstra Prize has been announced  prior to the award ceremony during the ACCAN National Conference on September 16.

The competition will award four apps from across four categories: mainstream apps, innovative apps for people with disability or older Australians, Children’s apps and gaming apps.

ACCAN says launched earlier this year, it is Australia’s first and only competition for accessible mobile apps which aims to raise awareness of issues faced by people with disability and older Australians with inaccessible apps.

“The competition will help to raise awareness and reward developers who have excelled at making their apps accessible for everyone,” ACCAN disability policy advisor Wayne Hawkins said.

“With mobile phone usage continuing to grow, it’s important that people with disability and older Australians aren’t left behind and are included in the digital world. 

“About one in five Australians have some form of permanent disability. Locking this demographic out from access to apps is bad ethics and bad business.

“Congratulations to all the short listed candidates. That these designers have all maximized the accessibility of their apps, shows the excellence of their design,” Acting Disability Commissioner Susan Ryan said.

“Each of these products is available to the broad spectrum of the community, who may choose to use them, in areas such as shopping, transportation, technology and tourism. Well done.”

Prizes for the winners include the Telstra Prize of $1500 in cash, promotion through Telstra’s social media and a one-off opportunity to participate in a mini-incubator experience with the telco’s in-house app developers and technology specialists.

Apps For All Challenge Shortlist

1               Most accessible mainstream app

•         Energy Rating
•         ACCC Shopper
•         My Bus (Canberra Transport)

2.               Most innovative app designed for people with disability or older Australians

•         Walsh Bay Sculpture Tour
•         Open Me Tours
•         Open Me Silent Tweets

3.               Most accessible children’s app

•         Positive penguins
•         Row Row Your Boat
•         Allen’s Adventure