Audio description and captioning

Audio description is additional verbal commentary of visuals during TV programs, on DVDs, at live performances and at cinema presentations. It can include descriptions of different visual elements, including scenes, actions, settings, and costumes.

Captioning is the text version of speech and other sounds. Captions can be used on television programs, DVDs and movies, and can also be used to support online content. There are 2 types of captions—closed captions, which are selected by a user; and open captions, which automatically appear on a screen.

Cinemas

Some cinemas in Queensland currently offer audio description as well as closed and open captioning for films. You can contact the following cinemas for information about services:

You can provide feedback about your personal experience with the closed captioning and audio description devices being used by the major cinema chains by emailing accessible.cinema@fahcsia.gov.au.

Theatre, ballet and opera

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), provides a range of services, facilities and programs to enable all visitors to attend performances and participate in programs. With advance notice QPAC can accommodate a range of individual needs and we strongly encourage visitors to notify staff of any individual needs at the time of booking.

Television

Audio descriptions are available on a range of programs across all of the ABC's television channels. Now everyone can get a complete picture. Find out more about the ABC's audio description services.