> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://salsa-digital.gitbook.io/govcms-content-administration/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://salsa-digital.gitbook.io/govcms-content-administration/civictheme-components-optional/working-with-civictheme.md).

# Working with CivicTheme

<figure><img src="/files/RIh14pC7I4dlMrEPTH2A" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

[CivicTheme](https://www.civictheme.io/) is based on and inspired by the former Australian Government Design System (aka GOLD Design System) and then uplifted with new features and functionality based on current users needs.

CivicTheme also aligns to, and facilitates compliance with, many policies of leading digital nations. These policies include open source, unified government services, and whole-of-government architecture patterns.

### Not mandated

CivicTheme usage on GovCMS is entirely optional and is not mandated by the Department of Finance.

It should be noted that once a website has had CivicTheme installed, removing it is nearly impossible due to the structural changes it makes to content types.

### WCAG compliance and assessments

The out-of-the-box CivicTheme components have been designed and developed from their inception with accessibility and inclusion front-of-mind. A compliance statement for each component details the compliance to the previous AGDS and to the relevant WCAG 2.2 AA standards — and how they can be tested.

A thorough accessibility assessment is conducted on CivicTheme for all features and functionality built as a part of the core build and is publicly available. This document outlines the CivicTheme design components' assessments based on compliance to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines WCAG 2.2. This covers all of the current components within CivicTheme.

### Anyone can use it

CivicTheme is an open source theme [available from the Drupal.org website](https://www.drupal.org/project/civictheme) and is available to anyone around the world for zero cost.


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