What's Happening?
Orthoptics Australia has published its 2025 Workforce Survey, providing critical insights into the profession's growth and diversification. The survey addresses data gaps crucial for future workforce planning and eye health care delivery. Orthoptics,
self-regulated by the Australian Orthoptic Board, faces challenges due to limited workforce data availability. The survey highlights the profession's expansion into areas such as surgical assistance, ophthalmic imaging, and management of ophthalmic pathologies.
Why It's Important?
The survey's findings are vital for informing future workforce planning and policy development in the eye health sector. As orthoptists take on more diverse roles, including management and research, the profession's scope and recognition are expanding. This growth necessitates appropriate recognition and remuneration to retain skilled professionals in clinical roles, ensuring robust eye health care delivery.
What's Next?
The survey results will be presented at the Orthoptics Australia Education and Advocacy Forum, alongside the RANZCO Congress in Melbourne. A roundtable workshop will discuss the survey findings, challenges, and opportunities for the profession, informing the development of the Orthoptics Australia Strategic Plan. Peer-reviewed papers on the survey findings are expected to be published throughout 2026.
