WRITER Cassandra Haines

From attending conferences to visiting practices, opportunities to network with members are valuable in shaping the work of Optometry Australia.

It was such a privilege to join so many of you at the inaugural Optometry Clinical Conference (OCC) in Melbourne this August! As both a South Australian and a facilitator of the conference, I was proud to see SA so strongly represented – not only through attendance, but also in the conversations, presentations, and collaborations shaping the future of our profession.

OCC 2025 brought together optometrists from across Australia for two days of engaging sessions, hands-on workshops, and meaningful discussion. It was energising to hear from leaders across our profession, as well as new voices and emerging researchers who brought fresh ideas to the table.

The theme ‘Today. Tomorrow. Together.’ captured the spirit of the event. We’re not just clinicians – we’re educators, advocates, and changemakers in a broader health system. And by working together, we can help build a more connected and sustainable future for eye care.

CLOSER TO HOME: ADELAIDE INTERACTIVE

While OCC gave us a national stage, we’re also focussed on creating rich opportunities for learning and connection right here in South Australia. That’s why I’m excited to attend Adelaide Interactive, taking place on 31 October and 1 November at the beautiful Adelaide Hills Convention Centre.

This event is a highlight in our calendar and offers a more intimate, hands-on experience for members to build knowledge and strengthen local networks. Whether you’re looking to build your confidence or reconnect with colleagues, I hope you’ll join us.

Registrations are open and I encourage you to reserve your place. Visit: interactive. optometry.org.au/adelaide-interactive-register.

STRENGTHENING REFERRAL PATHWAYS

We’ve continued our work to improve communication and collaboration between optometry and ophthalmology. Since the release of the updated South Australian Ophthalmology Clinical Prioritisation Criteria, we’ve been actively engaging with members to understand how the criteria can be applied in practice.

In response to member feedback, we’ve also updated the SA Ophthalmology Referral Guide – one of our most-used resources. This refreshed version continues to list local ophthalmologists by name, with updated details on locations, subspecialties, referral information, consulting days, and more. It’s a practical, go-to guide that makes referrals simpler and more transparent for you and your patients.

PRACTICE VISITS: INSIGHTS FROM THE GROUND

Over the past few months, I’ve visited a wide range of practices across the state – from metro Adelaide to regional towns. These visits are a chance to listen, learn, and connect – to hear about the realities of your day-to-day practice. I’ve heard about your wins, your concerns, and the areas where you’d like to see more support. Every conversation helps inform our advocacy and support, and I look forward to continuing these visits over the coming months. If you’d like a visit or just want to chat about what’s happening – across the profession or in your practice – I’d love to hear from you.

MEMBER BENEFITS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Membership with Optometry Australia means more than advocacy and events. It’s also about the everyday tools, protections, and resources that help you thrive in your career.

You now have access to eMIMS – a trusted clinical resource that supports safe and confident prescribing, especially important for therapeutically endorsed optometrists.

You can also access a growing range of exclusive discounts, including offers through Qantas, Doctors’ Health Fund, VistaPrint, and more – supporting both your personal and professional life.

And when it comes to support, it’s good to know you’re not alone. All members can access human resources and legal advice, as well as our Optometrist Advisor Help Desk, and we’ve recently expanded our mental health and wellbeing support, too. Through our new Employee Assistance Program provider, MINDCHECK HP, you can connect with experienced health professionals who understand the unique challenges that come with working in healthcare.

Whether you’re facing a tricky work situation or just need someone to talk to, help is only a phone call away.

NEXT STEPS

We’ve now commenced planning for a strong advocacy campaign leading into the 2026 South Australian state election, calling for a universal children’s vision screening programme in SA. I look forward to sharing more information, and how you can get involved.

Your voice matters, and together, we’re shaping what comes next.

Cassandra Haines is the State Lead for Optometry in South Australia. A practising optometrist, she also lectures at Flinders University.