Meet Tori Halsey, the new State Lead for Optometry Tasmania

In early May, Optometry Tasmania (OTas) welcomed Tori Halsey as its new State Lead, succeeding Karen Garner-Hamilton. Tori brings a wealth of experience as a Tasmanian-based optometrist, having previously served on both the OTas and Optometry Australia Boards.

Tori currently practises part time at Look of Australia, an independent Hobart practice, where she has worked for the past five years.

Tori’s decision to study optometry stemmed from a desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. She was considering a career in medicine or nursing, when the opportunity of a fast-track optometry program at Deakin University emerged. This was the perfect chance for Tori to integrate patient care, community engagement, and professional autonomy – and so began her career as an optometrist.

Tasmania’s natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle were key factors in Tori’s choice to practise in the state. She values the strong work-life balance, the opportunities for collaborative practice and the full scope of optometric care available in Tasmania, as well as the chance to work in an incredibly supportive community, dedicated to the well-being of all Tasmanians.

Before taking on the role of OTas State Lead, Tori gained invaluable experience serving on both the OTas and Optometry Australia Boards, and was an Early Career Optometrists (ECO) Tasmania committee member. She is a strong advocate for the profession and acknowledges the outstanding mentorship she received during her student placement from Karen Garner-Hamilton. Karen instilled in Tori (and others she mentored) the critical importance of Optometry Australia in the advocacy space and its value as an industry body, working collaboratively for the profession.

Looking ahead, Tori believes that the key priorities for Tasmanian optometrists are focusing on enhancing patient care through improved funding and collaborative models, particularly in areas like glaucoma and paediatrics. Addressing accessibility and transparency within the public health system is also a focus, with the ongoing e-referral pilot program seen as a positive initial step.

In her role as State Lead, Tori aspires to ensure that Tasmanian optometrists feel valued and heard. She is dedicated to representing their concerns and working towards effective solutions. Recognising the vital role of optometrists in the overall health of Tasmanians, her ultimate goal is to fully support and help develop their professional lives.

Tori looks forward to meeting members at the Tasmania Life Congress (TLC) in September and is available for in-person meetings (when mutually convenient) or for phone conversations. To make a time to catch up, or express any issues, members can reach out to Tori via email at t.halsey@optometryaustralia.com.au.