International grants available to study advancements in optometry

Optometry Australia is looking to support two members with study grants to participate in its 2025 Looking Outward on Optometric Knowledge (LOOK) International program. 

The LOOK International program seeks to evolve Australian optometric scope of practice by funding study tours abroad that investigate advancements in optometry that are not yet available, or readily available, in Australia. 

The successful applicants will receive $10,000 each to support them in travelling internationally to explore alternative optometric models of care that enable optometrists to perform advanced roles and subsequently reduce the pressure on the tertiary eye care system. Funds will also support members to translate their investigations to the Australian context and apply learnings locally. 

This is the fourth year Optometry Australia has run its LOOK scholarship program. Publications produced by previous recipients can be reviewed on Optometry Australia’s website.  

Optometry Australia CEO Skye Cappuccio said the LOOK International program continues to enable investigations of optometry on a global scale and see the ways in which optometry and primary eye care are integrated into global healthcare systems to further benefit patients and the community. 

‘This program has proven to be a fantastic learning opportunity for members to examine how other countries involve optometrists in a patient’s ocular healthcare journey. It may include the recipients visiting private practices, hospitals or community outposts,’ she said. 

‘Members can investigate international healthcare models, ways of delivering eye care, and the role of optometrists as primary eye care practitioners. It also offers the chance for members to explore systems that take maximum advantage of the skill set of optometrists to support patient access, system efficiency and quality health care. 

‘The key intent is to bring these learnings back to Australia to share with colleagues and our wider membership and explore potential benefits of their applicability in the Australian context.’ 

How to apply 

To apply for the 2025 LOOK International program, please review the following: 

• LOOK International Terms and Conditions (updated August 2024);

• the Marking Rubric; and  

• the draft Budget and Itinerary template. 

Complete a written application responding to the criteria outlined in the Terms and Conditions and email it to Sarah Davies, Director, Optometry Advancement at policy@optometry.org.au by Friday, 27 September 2024. 

Applicants will be advised of the outcome in October 2024.