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Audio Description: Making Sydney Video Content Accessible
23/10/2026
Audio description is narration that describes the important visual elements of video for people who are blind or have low vision. It helps make films, television, online videos, performances and exhibitions accessible to a wider audience. For Sydney organisations producing video content, audio description is a meaningful way to include more people.
What audio description covers
Audio description fills the natural gaps in dialogue and sound with short descriptions of what is happening on screen. This might include actions, settings, facial expressions, on-screen text and scene changes. The goal is to give viewers the information they need to follow and enjoy the content, without talking over important dialogue or sound.
Writing an audio description script
Audio description writing is a specialised skill. Describers watch the content carefully, identify what matters for understanding the story or message, and write concise descriptions that fit the available gaps. Good description is objective, describing what is seen rather than interpreting it, and uses vivid but economical language.
For corporate and educational videos, describing on-screen text, charts and key visuals is especially important, as these often carry essential information.
The role of voice talent
The voice delivering audio description should be clear, neutral and easy to listen to. The delivery should support the content rather than draw attention to itself. Timing is critical, as descriptions must fit precisely into gaps. Experienced voice talent can adjust pace to fit, while maintaining clarity.
Extended description
Some content has very few natural gaps, such as fast-paced videos with continuous narration. In these cases, extended audio description may pause the video to allow more description. This is more common in online and educational content where the viewer controls playback.
Planning for accessibility from the start
The easiest way to include audio description is to plan for it during production. When scripting a video, consider whether key information is only shown visually. Sometimes the presenter can simply describe it, reducing the need for separate description. Leaving natural pauses also makes later description easier.
Involve the community
People who are blind or have low vision are the best judges of whether description works. Where possible, seek feedback from users and organisations representing them, and use it to improve future content.
Other accessibility features
Audio description works alongside captions, transcripts and accessible video players. Together, they make content accessible to people with a range of needs. Check that your video platform supports an audio-described version or an alternative audio track.
Choose the right voice for the content
Some audio-described content suits a voice that contrasts with the main presenter, so listeners can easily tell description from dialogue. For example, if the presenter is a male voice, a female describer may help. Discuss this with your provider when planning the recording.
Review before publishing
Watch the described version from start to finish before release, ideally with your eyes closed for part of it. Check that descriptions do not clash with dialogue and that nothing important is missing.
Make your content accessible
We provide voice talent for audio description and accessible video for Sydney organisations, agencies and producers. Request a free quote and tell us about your content.