1:30min
Optometry Australia has recently commissioned a study from Flinders University to provide greater insights into the employment conditions experienced by optometrists. The research will allow employed optometrists to discuss their current experiences working in the industry, through a semi-structured interview process which would guarantee research participants’ anonymity. The findings of this research will provide a platform for Optometry Australia to raise points of concerns with key decision makers across the profession, and advocate for positive change.
This research responds to concerns heard from members about employment conditions and HR issues. All members already have access to our experienced Optometry Advisers, alongside advice from our employment lawyers, as well as access to our extensive online resources dedicated to HR conditions, Respect at Work and employee KPIs.
This new research complements work toward an updated workforce supply and demand projections study, which is already underway. This study will provide a clearer understanding of the expected short- and medium-term workforce supply and demand balance, drawing on known data and trend analysis. This work responds to concerns that optometry is reaching oversupply in Australia quicker than had been expected. Critically, it will inform Optometry Australia’s advocacy efforts and help us to shape and advocate for policies that support a sustainable, well-distributed workforce.
While data and research are key to addressing the longer term problem, Optometry Australia is also taking action today in pursuit of a sustainable supply and demand balance. There is significant unmet need for eye and vision care across much of the country. Optometry Australia is strongly focused on trying to grow demand for optometrist’s services to better meet community needs. Key demand-focused activities include the pursuit of Medicare billing changes, to enable Australians under 65 years old to access rebates for eye care more frequently and in line with best practice (keep an eye out for our forthcoming Federal Election campaign), and partnerships with industry to support an impactful Community Awareness Campaign, to be launched in 2025, which will ensure more children and their families access regular eye care.