South Australian Eye Health Leaders Push for Universal Pre-school Vision Screening
A coalition of optometry and ophthalmology bodies has formally proposed state-wide four-year-old vision screening to the South Australian Health Minister, amid fresh evidence that early detection can prevent lifelong impairment.
Momentum is building for the introduction of universal pre-school vision screening in South Australia (SA), with eye health leaders presenting a formal proposal to the state government as new national reporting highlights the transformative impact of early detection.
Optometry Australia, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO), Orthoptics Australia and SA eye health leaders have submitted a recommendation for universal four-year-old vision screening to SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Hon. Chris Picton, who is actively considering the proposal.
The push comes as a recent ABC News story featuring a SA family whose child's undiagnosed vision condition negatively impacted their learning and confidence has renewed public attention on the critical need for state-wide early eye health checks.
Evidence-based intervention with lifelong impact
Optometrist and SA State Lead for Optometry Australia, Cassandra Haines, said early detection remained one of the most effective and affordable ways to support children's development.
"Universal pre-school vision screening is evidence-based, cost-effective and can have lifelong impact," Ms Haines said. "Far too many vision issues go undetected until they affect a child's learning and confidence. A state-wide program would ensure every child starts school with the vision they need to thrive."
SA ophthalmologist Dr Joanna Black echoed the call for urgent action.
"The evidence is clear: early vision screening changes outcomes," Dr Black said. "Simple conditions, if missed, can lead to permanent impairment and years of avoidable challenges in the classroom. Universal pre-school vision screening is a practical and proven way to support children's development across the state."
Research reveals alarming detection rates
Recent Flinders University research (2021–2023) found that 17 per cent of Year 3 children failed a vision screening, most commonly due to previously undiagnosed refractive error.
Conditions such as amblyopia, or lazy eye, can lead to irreversible vision loss if not treated early, while uncorrected refractive error directly affects educational outcomes.
SA lags behind other states
South Australia remains out of step with Western Australia, New South Wales and Queensland, all of which have implemented universal pre-school vision screening programs.
While the CaFHS 4–5-year-old check includes a vision assessment, only about 40 per cent of children attend, and follow-up pathways remain inconsistent.
A universal program would align with the South Australian Preventive Health Strategy, the First 1000 Days priorities, and the approaches already adopted in other states.
Real-world impact: early detection changed a child's trajectory
The family featured in the ABC News coverage, including South Australian mother Carole Thornley, described the life-changing impact of early detection after her daughter Lucy was diagnosed with significant vision conditions that could have progressed without timely intervention.
"The screening referred her to see an optometrist, who diagnosed her with asymmetric hyperopia with astigmatism; conditions that, without early detection, could have led to a turned or lazy eye," Ms Thornley said.
"You love your children; you want to give your children the best opportunity in life…a simple little thing like this can give your child the best opportunity."
Lucy's experience underscores what a universal program could deliver for thousands of South Australian children.
Industry call to action
Eye health stakeholders are encouraging the sector and community to add their voices to the campaign, noting that collective advocacy and constituent engagement with local MPs can drive policy change.
The proposal represents a significant opportunity to close a preventable health gap and ensure every South Australian child has the vision they need to learn and thrive.
Watch the ABC coverage here.
