Accessibility Directorate

We are responsible for implementing and administering the new Nova Scotia Accessibility Act and addressing broader issues related to disability.

We are working with persons with disabilities, municipalities, businesses, post-secondary institutions, and community groups to prioritize and develop accessibility standards. The accessibility standards will apply to:

goods and services
information and communication
transportation
employment
education
built environment

Our Work

Accessibility in education and the built environment: consultation

Government is developing accessibility standards in education and the built environment. We’re asking Nova Scotians to help by sharing their experiences with accessibility barriers in these areas.

Find out how you can help.

Minister’s Annual Report on Accessibility 2017-2018

The Minister’s Annual Report on Accessibility outlines our accessibility accomplishments for the 2017-2018 fiscal year. The report includes information on the Accessibility Directorate & Accessibility Advisory Board; development of Access by Design 2030 & the Government of Nova Scotia Accessibility Plan; awareness and capacity building initiatives; and collaborative work with other departments and organizations to achieve accessibility goals.

Read the report (PDF 147 KB)

Standard Development Committees

The Accessibility Advisory Board has established 2 committees that will help make recommendations on accessibility standards.

Education Standard Development Committee

The Education Standard Development Committee is helping the board make recommendations on the content and implementation of an accessibility standard in education. Learn more about the committee.

Built Environment Standard Development Committee

The Built Environment Standard Development Committee is helping the board make recommendations on the content and implementation of an accessibility standard in the built environment. Learn more about the committee.

Access by Design 2030: Achieving an Accessible Nova Scotia

Access by Design 2030 provides a framework for how the province will achieve our goal of an accessible Nova Scotia by 2030 and identifies priorities for this work. The strategy was developed in consultation with persons with disabilities and their families; organizations that provide services to persons with disabilities; representatives of the non-profit, education, health, municipal and business sectors; and the Accessibility Advisory Board.

Government of Nova Scotia Accessibility Plan

The Province of Nova Scotia has released the Government of Nova Scotia Accessibility Plan (2018–2021). The plan was developed collaboratively by staff across departments, through discussions with employees with disabilities, and with input from the citizens we serve.