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Building on ongoing advocacy efforts this week, Optometry Australia today visited the Parliament of South Australia to call on key policymakers to sign a pledge focused on improving eye health.
OA extends a special thanks to the Hon Robert Simms, Member of the Legislative Council in the Parliament of SA, for his support in hosting the event.
The event was attended by the Hon Nat Cook MP, Minister for Human Services and Minister for Seniors and Ageing Well, amongst other South Australian parliamentarians.
During the visit, OA secured several signatures from parliamentarians, all of whom committed to raising awareness of childhood myopia and the importance of regular eye exams for Australians.
Among those who pledged their support were the Hon Robert Simms MLC, Nick McBride MP, the Hon Ben Hood MLC, the Hon Nicola Centofanti MLC, the Hon Andrea Michaels MP, Heidi Giordano, the Hon Tammy Franks MLC and the Hon Nat Cook MP.
Pledging to support myopia awareness
Those who pledged committed to championing greater action on myopia awareness, especially among children, and using their profile to remind Australian families to visit an optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination.
OA continues to work towards securing investment in a national multi-channel consumer awareness campaign in 2025.
The campaign, already supported by many industry stakeholders, will highlight the need for early detection and intervention, focusing on the importance of regular eye examinations and is part of OA’s broader advocacy for stronger public health initiatives and systemic support for primary eye care.
Further details regarding the campaign will be shared in the new year.