Industry News
OA Calls for Reinstatement of Biennial Medicare Eye Exams
Optometry Australia (OA) has launched its Eyes on Medicare campaign ahead of the 2025 Federal Election, urging the government to reinstate Medicare-subsidised eye exams every two years for Australians under 65. This advocacy seeks to reverse the 2014 policy change that extended the interval to three years, which, according to Optometry Australia, has resulted in a concerning decline in eye examinations and increased risk of undiagnosed eye conditions.
The organization’s analysis highlights an 18.1% drop in per capita initial comprehensive eye exams between 2017-18 and 2023-24. During this period, the number of exams fell from 8,898 per 100,000 people to 7,284. The decline was consistent across all states, with women and children disproportionately affected. If 2017-18 levels were maintained, there would have been 424,101 additional eye exams in 2023-24.
Optometry Australia attributes the decline to multiple factors, including COVID-19 disruptions, economic pressures, and reduced accessibility due to Medicare policy changes. The organisation warns that this trend risks a surge in preventable vision loss by 2030 if left unaddressed.
To combat these issues, Optometry Australia is not only advocating for biennial Medicare-subsidised exams but also seeking federal funding for a 2025 national awareness campaign on childhood myopia. This initiative aims to educate parents on the importance of early detection and treatment of myopia to prevent long-term vision issues.
Optometry Australia is engaging with Federal Health Minister Mark Butler and Shadow Health Minister Anne Ruston to ensure the issue is prioritised in the upcoming election platforms of major political parties.
The campaign calls for sector-wide participation to raise awareness of the importance of regular eye exams for asymptomatic Australians. Optometry Australia plans to provide resources and support for this advocacy effort in 2025.
“Our message is clear,” the organisation states. “Australia cannot afford to wait—we must have Eyes on Medicare. Accessible, timely eye care is essential to prevent vision loss and ensure public health.”
For further details on the campaign, professionals and stakeholders are encouraged to contact Optometry Australia’s Optometry Advancement team.
