1:30min
Earlier this year, QLD Health confirmed that it is time to review the Medical Aids Subsidy Scheme (MASS) – including the spectacle supply scheme.
Why this matters
The Spectacle Supply Scheme is one of thirteen streams of support funded by the MASS. It plays a vital role in ensuring equitable access to subsidised glasses for eligible Queenslanders. Strengthening the scheme is key to supporting patient outcomes and ensuring optometrists can continue to deliver this important service sustainably.
What we’re doing
Optometry Australia has formally engaged with Queensland Health’s review of the MASS, providing input that draws directly on member feedback and ensuring that the experiences of Queensland optometrists are at the forefront of reform discussions.
In June 2025, we invited members to share their experiences with the MASS and Spectacle Supply Scheme (SSS) through a short survey. Your feedback has highlighted:
- The administrative burden – excessive paperwork, identity verification requirements, and manual processes create barriers for both patients and practices.
- Inadequate reimbursements – current rates fail to cover the true cost of providing subsidised spectacles, particularly for outreach services, making participation financially unsustainable.
- Eligibility challenges – rigid rules and strict ID requirements disproportionately impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, people experiencing homelessness, and those recently incarcerated.
Our recommendations for reform include streamlining and digitising the application process, ensuring reimbursement reflects real service costs, and introducing more flexible eligibility pathways.
An additional way to contribute
Queensland Health has recently commissioned Nous Group and is currently undertaking a QLD-wide survey to capture broader stakeholder perspectives on the MASS as a whole. While Optometry Australia continues to work directly with QLD Health to provide consolidated feedback on behalf of members, optometrists are welcome to also contribute directly through this survey.
📅 Survey closes: Friday 26 September 2025
🔗 Complete the MASS Review Survey here
Your continued input strengthens our advocacy and ensures Queensland optometrists’ experiences are front and centre in shaping the future of the scheme.
Have a question, or want to get involved?
Contact Optometry Australia’s Advocacy team at policy@optometry.org.au. We’d love to hear from you.