Advanced Practice Recognition

Why apply for the APR Program?

The Advanced Practice Recognition (APR) Program is an Optometry Australia exclusive, member-only initiative designed to recognise optometrists with advanced clinical expertise, and expand career opportunities. We encourage members to consider applying for the Program, because it:  

• Supports strategic career trajectory planning for optometrists. This ensures that talent within the optometry field is nurtured and retained, contributing to a vibrant, dynamic and engaged workforce. 
• Counts towards continuing professional development (CPD) requirements.
• Graduates of the APR Program will earn the title “Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma”.
• Provides ongoing learning through the exclusive annual Glaucoma Symposium to deepen clinical knowledge and foster professional connections. 
• Strengthens collaborative care with ophthalmologists, benefiting individual practitioners while also helping to ensure timely access to care for patients. 

Background

As part of Optometry Australia’s efforts to realise its preferred future for optometry in 2040, an APR Program in optometry has been established, aiming to recognise and credential optometrists with demonstrated expertise in particular clinical areas. Optometry Australia believes the APR Program, available exclusively to Optometry Australia members,  positions optometry to adapt to evolving healthcare landscapes, in close alignment with the forward-looking strategy of  Optometry 2040. 

Are you eligible?  

✔️ Active Optometry Australia Member
✔️ Minimum 5 years’ experience as a practising optometrist
✔️ Advanced experienced in glaucoma care management
✔️ Committed to completing the Program over a 4-month period starting April 2025 

Take the next step towards becoming a Credentialled Advanced Practitioner 

In March 2025, we opened the first round of applications to the APR Program. The APR Program requires optometrists to demonstrate expertise through a structured application process. Read more about it here.

The application fee to become an Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma is $2,200 (incl GST). In addition, an annual fee of approximately $300 will be charged upon registration to the APR Program Symposium. The application and symposium fees are non-refundable.

Your path to qualification starts with these simple steps: 

• Step 1: Submit your application form and CV to policy@optometry.org.au by Tuesday 8 April 2025. 

Once accepted into the program, you will be guided through the following: 

• Step 2: Submit evidence showing your clinical experience in glaucoma (e.g.: case logs, lectures, publications, advanced certificates).  
• Step 3: Submit two detailed 3,000-word case reports demonstrating your clinical expertise in glaucoma. 
• Step 4: Provide a brief written response demonstrating your leadership competencies. 
• Step 5: Participate in a 1-hour Clinical Discussion Interview 

Once applicants successfully complete the APR Program, they will be awarded the title Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner- Glaucoma (OACAP-G), which comes with a range of benefits, in the resources below.  

To maintain OACAP-G status, credentialled professionals must then attend the annual APR Program Symposium (scheduled in alignment with the Optometry Clinical Conference in August 2025) or review the recording and join a one-hour drop-in session, both requiring a small attendance fee. They must also manage at least 20 glaucoma patients per year, with Optometry Australia conducting spot audits as needed. 

If you have any questions, our team are here to help. Review the resources below, our Frequently Asked Questions, and reach out to us any time at policy@optometry.org.au.

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