From:	Cathy Clark 
Sent:	Tuesday, 10 November 2009 11:27 AM
Subject:	Application for Exemption under DDA section 55: Cinema	Captioning and 
audio description

To whom it may concern:

I submit this email stating that I do not support the Temporary Exemption for the above. 
Given the very poor track record from the Cinema industry since 2001 - over the last 8 
years, there has been no increase (other than independent cinemas which was 
funded by the Fed Government which show the exact same movies): 

1) the increase in venues is a very positive move and means people will be able to 
access the movies at the same locations
2) the three times a week (one movie a week) allocation is not sufficient as many 
people are unable to arrange their lives around going to a movie.. this is unfair as 
hearing people get a chance to see a movie over a longer period and we only have 
one week with only a few weeks notice (sometimes under a week )
3) The same movies are shown at all different locations - the numbers, time, choice 
and number of weekly sessions is insufficient
4) the times are always 'off peak' and therefore people are unable to access discount 
offers from cinemas nor enjoy movies during peak times
5) I cant see why DF should accept the exemption - I think they should reject it and 
allow someone to lodge a complaint (and explore the option of lodging a class action) 
and shake things up. Accepting this will not improve things and allow the cinema 
companies to hold all the cards  - it has been far too long and too little is happening in 
this area.

In addition, as a previous member of the negotiating committee, I recall that a 
commitment was made to explore the option of closed captions on movies using Rear 
Window technology or the newer Digital technology to allow participants to attend 'any' 
cinema they desire and see any movie at any time , any place without restrictions - the 
open caption cinema promotes segregation of hearing impaired people.. maybe some 
people like some privacy away from people they know in the community and see a 
movie in privacy with other friends.

I also do not believe this solution should be managed by Media Access Australia 
which forces the movie houses not to take ownership of the issue and blame problems 
or failures on the MAA and are able to bypass on their corporate responsibilities

Please do not accept this exemption without more robust solutions and commitments 
from the various parties, this commitment is weak and does not enhance the cinema 
experience for deaf and hard of hearing Australians and is purely a cosmetic solution 
that does not add to the quality of life for us.

Thank you - please fee free to contact me if you have any enquiries

Cathy Clark



Cathy Clark
Co-ordinator 
North Melbourne Institute of TAFE
77-91 St Georges Road
Preston   Vic   3072
www.nmit.vic.edu.au/excellence