1:30min
As the 2025 Federal Election looms, Optometry Australia’s ‘Eyes on Medicare’ campaign is gaining traction, thanks to passionate members like Nancy Atkinson, President of Optometry Queensland Northern Territory, who recently met with her local MP, Elizabeth Watson-Brown (Member for Ryan, Brisbane), to champion the sector’s call for the reinstatement of two-yearly Medicare-subsidised eye exams for Australians under 65.
A personal drive to advocate
Nancy’s motivation for stepping into the advocacy space was clear: ‘I’m deeply passionate about oral prescribing and the benefits of myopia control. These priorities dovetail perfectly with our push for more frequent comprehensive eye exams. I was shocked to see that comprehensive consultations have dropped by 18.1% since 2017-18. That’s a huge step backward for preventative eye care.’
The power of preparation
Nancy’s approach to advocacy was thoughtful and strategic.
Armed with resources from Optometry Australia – including tailored talking points, take-home materials, and key data – she reached out to her MP with a simple but effective email, thanking her for her service and requesting a meeting.
A week later, Nancy had a date in the diary.
‘Elizabeth offered to come to my practice, which was perfect. It gave me the chance to showcase the equipment we use and how comprehensive eye exams go beyond just prescribing glasses—they’re about early detection and preventative health.’
Before the visit, Nancy sharpened her talking points during a pre-meeting with the Optometry Australia team. ‘That online session was invaluable—it helped me refine the key messages and approach the meeting with confidence,’ she said.
The meeting: Turning advocacy into action
The meeting itself was a 20-minute, focused conversation—but the impact was immediate.
‘It was clear Elizabeth had read my email or been well-briefed. She was across the key issues and had even consulted with Greens Senator Jordon Steele-John, who confirmed his support for our Myopia Awareness campaign. It was a great starting point.’
Nancy used the meeting to explain the wider impact of regular eye exams, covering everything from early childhood development and avoiding missed educational opportunities, to safe driving, to chronic disease management, including diabetic eye care and falls prevention.
‘I explained that optometrists could help ease the burden on GPs and emergency departments by becoming the first point of contact for all eye-related issues—just like how dentists are for teeth. It’s all about shifting mindsets and encouraging policymakers to see optometrists as primary health care providers.’
Optometry Australia CEO, Skye Cappuccio agrees. ‘Regular eye examinations are fundamental to preventing avoidable vision loss, and yet, fewer Australians under 65 are accessing them. We believe that reinstating two-yearly Medicare-subsidised eye examinations for Australians under 65 will improve eye care outcomes across the country,’ she said.
‘This is why, alongside members and sector leaders like Nancy, we’re calling on both the Minister for Health, the Hon Mark Butler MP, and the Shadow Minister for Health, Senator the Hon Anne Ruston, to formally respond to our campaign, committing to addressing this issue as a priority in the next term of government.’
Why every optometrist should get involved
For Nancy, the advocacy experience was a game-changer.
‘It was easier than I thought. Everyone has a connection to eye health, and that makes these conversations flow naturally. MPs understand how poor vision affects quality of life.’
Her advice for fellow optometrists?
‘Start local—just send an email. OA has all the templates and resources you need. If you’re nervous, bring another optometrist from your electorate. The more faces MPs see, the stronger our message becomes.’
Why this matters
Nancy’s story is proof that grassroots advocacy works. By stepping up and having these conversations, optometrists can directly influence policy decisions that shape the future of eye care in Australia.
The ‘Eyes on Medicare’ campaign is gaining momentum, but we need more voices like Nancy’s.
Want to get involved?
- Use OA’s advocacy tool to contact your local MP.
- Arrange a meeting – OA will support you every step of the way.
- Share your story and inspire others to advocate for change.
Together, we can ensure that Australians are accessing the eye care they need, and build a robust future for our profession.
Nancy owns a multi optometrist practice in Toowong, Brisbane and is currently the President of Optometry Queensland Northern Territory. She completed her undergraduate and graduate certificate in Ocular Therapeutics at QUT and has served on the Optometrists Board of Qld and The Board of the Royal Blind Foundation. She also worked for AHPRA on the Registrations and Notifications Committee for 10 years. Her son, Rob, is currently studying third year optometry.