Industry News
New Member-Based Professional Network for Optical Dispensers Launched in Australia
Australia's newest member-based professional network for Optical Dispensers, Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA), officially launched on 10 January 2022 with over 1200 members, offering an eye-watering range of benefits and resources that Optical Dispensers, Optical Assistants, Affiliates and Support Staff can have access to and make use of.
ODA is founded by Australasian College of Optical Dispensing (ACOD) directors Mr James Gibbins and Mr Chedy Kalach, and one of the college’s senior lecturers Ms April Petrusma. Ms Petrusma is the CEO of ODA.
Ms Petrusma said: "Optical Dispensers Australia provides its members with a long list of benefits. It is a hub for Optical Dispensers and Support Staff alike, to access CPD, Dispensing Resources, HR Support and to Network within the industry."
Ms Petrusma further stated: "One of our biggest projects and benefits to the profession is our CPD offering. In such a fast moving and evolving industry, we believe it is imperative that industry employees have a place to go to regularly update their skills, remain current in the industry and become inspired to be the best they can be. Our CPD program is accessible nationwide with a focus on a wide range of topics to support career growth and enhancement. With educational contributions from ODA Corporate Partners, there is something to interest everyone."
ODA is backed by the International Opticians Association (IOA). ODA offers its Qualified members a joint membership to the IOA.
According to the organisation, there is something for everyone with three tiers of membership:
- Qualified Optical Dispensers
- Optical Assistants, Affiliates & Support Staff
- Students (Studying Cert IV Optical Dispensing)
Perks include access to a comprehensive Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Program, Dispensing Resources, Networking Opportunities, HR Support and much more.
According to the founders, ODA was founded by passion with one main objective in mind: to transform the Optical Dispensing industry by creating a community where Optical Dispensers and their Affiliates can feel supported and inspired. ODA is committed to professional excellence and ensuring the Optical Dispensing profession reaches its full potential.
