WCAG 2.0, or the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines version 2.0, is a set of international standards developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities. These guidelines help ensure that websites, apps, and digital tools can be used by everyone, including people who are blind or have low vision, are deaf or hard of hearing, have motor disabilities, or experience cognitive and learning challenges.
WCAG 2.0 was published in December 2008 and has been widely adopted as the benchmark for accessibility compliance, including in Australia, where it is referenced in government and education sector standards.
Why WCAG 2.0 Matters
People interact with the web in many ways. Some use screen readers, others navigate with keyboards instead of a mouse, and many rely on captions or simplified text. Without accessible design, these users can be locked out of vital information, services, or learning opportunities. WCAG 2.0 ensures that websites are:
- Perceivable: Content must be presented in ways users can perceive — this includes alternatives for non-text content, adaptable layouts, and clear distinctions between foreground and background.
- Operable: Interfaces must be usable through a range of inputs, including keyboard-only navigation, and avoid features that could cause seizures or confusion.
- Understandable: Information and operation of the interface must be easy to comprehend, including readable text, predictable navigation, and input assistance.
- Robust: Content must work reliably across technologies, including assistive technologies like screen readers and speech input software.
These four principles are known as POUR.
Structure of WCAG 2.0
WCAG 2.0 is organised into four principles, 12 guidelines, and 61 success criteria. Each success criterion is assigned a level of conformance:
- Level A: The minimum level of accessibility.
- Level AA: The standard most organisations aim to meet — and the one often required by law.
- Level AAA: The highest and most thorough level, usually used for high-priority sites or disability-focused services.
For example:
- Level A might require that images have alt text.
- Level AA might require captions for videos and a contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for text.
- Level AAA includes extended support such as sign language interpretation and simplified language.
Who Uses WCAG 2.0?
- Web Developers & Designers use WCAG 2.0 to guide accessible design choices.
- Government Agencies adopt WCAG 2.0 to meet legislative requirements like the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (in Australia).
- Educational Institutions apply the guidelines to ensure equitable digital learning environments.
- Businesses use WCAG to ensure their websites are accessible to a broader audience, including aging users and those with temporary impairments.
WCAG 2.0 vs Later Versions
While WCAG 2.1 (2018) and 2.2 (2023) expand on version 2.0 with updates for mobile accessibility and cognitive disabilities, WCAG 2.0 remains a foundational standard and is still the benchmark required under many national regulations.
Key Takeaway
WCAG 2.0 isn’t just about compliance — it’s about inclusion. Making digital content accessible means more people can participate fully in education, work, and life. Whether you’re a teacher creating learning materials, a developer building apps, or an administrator choosing a new platform, WCAG 2.0 gives you the tools to make your digital environment usable by all.