Optometry Australia has led a sustained advocacy campaign since 2013 to ensure nationally consistent subsidised spectacles schemes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Eye Health Advisory Group has been key to our advocacy efforts, developing a set of principles and recommended standards to support the provision of sustainable eye care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.
Following sustained advocacy for the implementation of these principles, in August 2018 the federal government announced a $2 million investment for Vision 2020 Australia to work with state and territory governments to establish a nationally consistent approach to spectacle subsidies. We are working closely with Vision 2020 Australia to ensure this investment supports sustainable schemes which meet the principles developed in 2013.
These principles and recommended standards identify best practice for subsidised spectacle schemes, available in all jurisdictions, to facilitate improved accessibility of vision correction for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We advocate that all jurisdictions assess the principles and recommended standards against their existing scheme and make improvements as necessary.
Go to how to get involved for further information or contact policy@optometry.org.au.
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In the spirit of reconciliation Optometry Australia acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.