1:30min
France has become the first country in the European Union to reimburse myopia control spectacle lenses, setting a powerful precedent in tackling the growing burden of childhood myopia.
From 1 July 2025, French children aged 5 to 16 with severe or rapidly progressing myopia will be eligible to receive HOYA MiYOSMART lenses under the national reimbursement scheme.
This landmark decision positions France as a leader in prioritising early intervention in children’s eye health – recognising that slowing the progression of myopia can help reduce future risks of vision impairment and myopia-related eye disease.
In contrast, many of Australia’s state and territory-based spectacle subsidy schemes currently do not extend to myopia control interventions, and some do not include support for contact lenses at all. As a result, families seeking these clinically effective treatments often face significant out-of-pocket costs – a barrier that disproportionately impacts those experiencing financial disadvantage.
Optometry Australia has been advocating for these schemes to be modernised to reflect current clinical practice and better meet community needs.
This advocacy is part of a coordinated national effort to combat the rising prevalence of childhood myopia. In April 2025, Optometry Australia launched the national Myopia Awareness Campaign, encouraging families to reduce screen time, increase outdoor activities, and prioritise regular eye examinations. The campaign’s message, “Off Screens, Outside, Optometrist,” aims to shift everyday behaviours while reinforcing the importance of eye care.
Recent consumer research conducted in November 2024 revealed that 21% of Australians had never heard of myopia, and 85% were unaware of available treatment options. These findings underscore the urgent need for increased public education and accessible interventions.
‘France’s decision shows what’s possible when public health policy keeps pace with evidence,’ said Sarah Davies, Director of Advocacy at Optometry Australia. ‘We need to ensure all Australian children have affordable access to interventions that can protect their vision for life.’
With childhood myopia rates rising and the World Health Organization (WHO) recognising refractive error as a key priority through initiatives such as SPECS2030, there is growing global consensus around the need for action.
Optometry Australia will continue to push for policy reform and welcomes collaboration with state leads, industry partners, and members to advocate for change.
For more information or to support this advocacy, contact policy@optometry.org.au.