Published: 9 May 2026
The Standard That’s Reshaping ICT Procurement
Don’t get me wrong… WCAG is still critical for web, and more broadly digital accessibility. But when it comes to government procurement of ICT products and services, AS EN 301 549 has emerged as the comprehensive standard that buyers are now expecting suppliers to meet. This article explores why this shift is happening and what it means for vendors and procurement teams in 2026.
Note: EN 301 549 is the European standard for ICT accessibility, which has been adopted in full by the Australian government as the baseline for procurement as AS EN 301 549. It covers a wide range of technologies and is more comprehensive than WCAG alone.
What AS EN 301 549 Covers
Unlike WCAG, which focuses on web content, EN 301 549 covers:
- Web
- Software
- Mobile apps
- Documents
- Hardware
- Telecoms
- Biometrics
- Authentication
- Functional performance criteria
It is a whole of ICT standard.
Why Governments Are Standardising on EN 301 549
1. Consistency
Agencies want a unified approach across all procurement categories.
2. Clarity
EN 301 549 provides detailed requirements for non-web technologies.
3. Alignment with global markets
The EU and many international jurisdictions already use EN 301 549.
4. Reduced ambiguity
WCAG alone is not sufficient for complex ICT procurement.
What Government Buyers Expect From Vendors in 2026
1. ACRs aligned to EN 301 549
Not just WCAG. Not just marketing claims.
2. Evidence of testing
Buyers expect:
- manual testing
- assistive technology testing
- documented methods
3. Accessibility roadmaps
If gaps exist, vendors must show how and when they will be addressed.
4. Governance
Buyers want to see:
- accessibility owners
- design system maturity
- continuous monitoring
How Procurement Teams Should Adapt
1. Update procurement templates
Include EN 301 549 references and requirements.
2. Train staff
Procurement officers need to understand the standard at a practical level.
3. Build accessibility checkpoints into evaluation
Accessibility should be assessed at:
- RFP stage
- evaluation stage
- contract negotiation
- implementation
4. Require updated ACRs annually
Accessibility changes as products evolve.
Future Trends
Expect to see:
- mandatory reporting
- integration with cybersecurity assurance
- increased scrutiny of vendor claims
- more mature accessibility governance across government
Conclusion
AS EN 301 549 is now the baseline for ICT procurement in Australia. Vendors who understand and align with it will win more tenders. Procurement teams who enforce it will reduce risk and improve outcomes.
Services
Procurement: Learn how AccessUX helps IT buyers and procurement teams to source accessible ICT and evaluate supplier accessibility claims teams.