Information and communication

Provide clear signage

Use simple, consistent and visual signage to help people easily find their way and access information.

Why this matters

Clear signs help people to navigate your business independently. They also make information accessible to more people.

These signs can reduce anxiety about getting lost or going to the wrong place. Also, when people see themselves in images, they are more likely to feel like they belong.

“A lot of autistic people are visual thinkers, so a big slab of text is not necessarily going to capture attention, but if the images are right, that can give you all of the information.”

Community Member

The steps below help people with sensory differences feel welcome and included. They also support people with hidden disabilities. Together, these actions make your environment more inclusive.

What best practice looks like:

Plain English language that is literal and direct

Visual symbols alongside text

At least 14-point accessible font

Easy to read colours on printed materials

Even and generous spacing

A consistent look and placement throughout the space

Clear direction signs to toilets, exits and key areas

Images that show people with diverse abilities, identities and backgrounds

Limited decorative items

High contrast between text and background

Symbols that are widely known and easy to understand

Example:

A fast food venue uses picture symbols for toilets, the exit and the ordering counter, with 16-point text beneath. All signage uses the same design and colour scheme.