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2025
Media Response — The Age and Sydney Morning Herald 10th July 2025
Measured skepticism about the incentives of any medical provider to recommend a treatment, procedure or device should play a role when consumers are making decisions about their personal healthcare.  However, the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) urges patients to ask more questions and ensure they understand the diagnosis they have been given and the subsequent basis for a recommended treatment, procedure or device before proceeding..
For more information download this document
‘Colour the World’ of Surgical Eye Care 08th July 2025
Communities across Australia and the globe are being encouraged to “see the world of eye surgery in colour” this August. As part of its annual World Ophthalmologist Day campaign, the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is launching its first international colouring competition to shine a spotlight on the work of eye surgeons everywhere. .
Website: Support World Ophthalmologist Day and participate in the International Colouring Competition
For more information download this document
Media Response — Insight News 28th June 2025
A growing imbalance of power and transition towards US-style managed care and integration of private hospitals poses a threat to Australian patients’ right to choose the doctor of their choice, procedure or treatment of their choice, and hospital or facility of their choice..
For more information download this document
Media Statement — Grattan Report 27th June 2025
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) welcomes the release of the Grattan Institute Report but warns it paints a one-sided picture of the challenges posed to ophthalmology in Australia..
For more information download this document
Letter to the Editor — Grattan Report 26th June 2025
An open Letter to the Editor penned by ASO President, Dr Peter Sumich, regarding the release of The Grattan Institute Report..
For more information download this document
It's a social advocacy film shifting the focus from 'disability' to 'ability' with a focal message on preventative eye health... and it's almost here! Be a social advocate for preventative eye health and attend a screening near you. 'My Eyes' set for Australian launch 24th April 2025
It's a social advocacy film shifting the focus from 'disability' to 'ability' with a focal message on preventative eye health... and it's almost here! Be a social advocate for preventative eye health and attend a screening near you..
Media Response — Insight News 14th April 2025
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) accepts the decision of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) to introduce new measures that permanently identify practitioners who commit sexual misconduct. .
For more information download this document
10th ASO Skills Expo set for historic visit to Queensland 10th April 2025
Brisbane will soon set the stage for the 10th Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) Skills Expo and mark a historical first in Queensland.  Held annually to support members of the ASO in private practice and navigating the business of ophthalmology, this year’s event will be held over two days from 31 May to 1 June at The Westin Brisbane. .
For more information download this document
ASO marks International Women’s Day with historic CEO Appointment 07th March 2025
Progressive change is underway at the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists as an historic announcement coincides with International Women’s Day. For the first time in the ASO’s 43-year history, a woman has been appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO)..
For more information download this document
In March 2025, the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) made history with the announcement of its first female Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With her feet now under the desk and sitting at the helm, we spoke with Katrina to learn more about her contributions to the ASO and her aspirations for the future of ophthalmology in Australia. However, one thing is for certain — the mission and objective of the ASO will continue unchanged. CEO Conversations: A new chapter, the same mission 07th March 2025
In March 2025, the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) made history with the announcement of its first female Chief Executive Officer (CEO). With her feet now under the desk and sitting at the helm, we spoke with Katrina to learn more about her contributions to the ASO and her aspirations for the future of ophthalmology in Australia. However, one thing is for certain — the mission and objective of the ASO will continue unchanged. .
Call for a Private Health Authority referred to Health Minister 05th March 2025
Calls for the Australian Government to establish a private health commission or independent authority are now sitting in the in-tray of Minister for Health, Hon Mark Butler MP. The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) launched an e-petition via the Parliament of Australia website in late 2024, requesting the establishment of a private health commission — or independent private health authority — to restore balance to the divided and failing sector..
For more information download this document
ASO welcomes new year with incoming Board appointments 19th February 2025
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) has begun the new year with three incoming appointments to its Board of Directors. Victorian ophthalmologists Dr Rahul Chakrabarti and Dr Tricia Drew will join Mr Mark Grey from Tasmania in a move to further strengthen and develop the ASO’s advocacy and efficiency..
For more information download this document
2024
Join the call for a Private Health Commission 03rd December 2024
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is calling on the community for its support to campaign the Federal Government to establish a private health commission.  With community support, the ASO said the petition could be the gift that keeps on giving this Christmas, if signed before 25 December 2024. .
Website: Sign the e-Petition EN6877
For more information download this document
Last year, the Griffith Base Hospital Ophthalmology team was awarded a Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) Excellence Award for its project ‘Saving Sight is our Vision’ in the ‘Keeping People Healthy’ category. Leading the team with his colleague and fellow ASO member Dr Dominic McCall, Associate Professor Geoffrey Painter shares how the project came to be — and you’ll discover, as we did, this is a larger story about the shared pursuit to advance eye health for all. Ophthalmology Outreach: The pursuit of greater eye health for all 07th November 2024
Last year, the Griffith Base Hospital Ophthalmology team was awarded a Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) Excellence Award for its project ‘Saving Sight is our Vision’ in the ‘Keeping People Healthy’ category. Leading the team with his colleague and fellow ASO member Dr Dominic McCall, Associate Professor Geoffrey Painter shares how the project came to be — and you’ll discover, as we did, this is a larger story about the shared pursuit to advance eye health for all. .
For more information download this document
There’s some change underway on the ASO Board of Directors, as we say farewell to one of our long-standing members. Dr Nisha Sachdev’s lasting legacy 07th November 2024
There’s some change underway on the ASO Board of Directors, as we say farewell to one of our long-standing members. .
For more information download this document
Media Response — NZ Optics 02nd October 2024
A media response provided to NZ Optics regarding proposed changes to health practitioner regulatory settings. .
For more information download this document
Eye surgeons and medical technology innovators took the ‘operating theatre’ to Australian Parliament House (APH), our politicians and healthcare policymakers this National Science Week. Eye Surgery Showcase goes to Australian Parliament House 15th August 2024
Eye surgeons and medical technology innovators took the ‘operating theatre’ to Australian Parliament House (APH), our politicians and healthcare policymakers this National Science Week..
For more information download this document
Be part of the ASO’s first International Eye Care Mission 25th July 2024
A growing collective of eye surgeons with a shared vision to advance the cause of eye health are headed to Vietnam — and you are invited to join them..
For more information download this document
Eye on doctors’ mental health and wellbeing 01st June 2024
A gathering of more than 100 eye surgeons from across Australia will today draw attention to the mental health and wellbeing of healthcare practitioners — because doctors matter too..
For more information download this document
Building on Progress: Becoming Australia’s First Indigenous Ophthalmologist 29th May 2024
In the May 2024 Edition of the ASO Members' Bulletin magazine, the ASO sits down with A/Prof Kris Rallah-Baker who shares his story of becoming Australia's first Indigenous ophthalmologist and the work being done to recruit more Indigenous doctors into ophthalmology. .
For more information download this document
On Tuesday, 14 May 2024 the Albanese Government handed down its third annual budget since being elected to office. Your ASO has compiled a highlights package of the key deliverables for health and the areas that might impact you. Federal Budget 2024–2025 Highlights for ASO Members 15th May 2024
On Tuesday, 14 May 2024 the Albanese Government handed down its third annual budget since being elected to office. Your ASO has compiled a highlights package of the key deliverables for health and the areas that might impact you. .
For more information download this document
Media Response — Insight Ophthalmic News 08th April 2024
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is strongly opposed to the emerging indications that Government intends to remove the vital, longstanding, and proven role of Medical Colleges in maintaining high — and most importantly — safe standards of specialist education and training..
For more information download this document
Media Response — 9 News Melbourne 14th March 2024
Media Response to 9 News Melbourne regarding choice in medicine, choice of doctors, and choice of procedures..
Website: 9 News
For more information download this document
There’s an eye disease taking hold of 300,000 Australians, with more than half going about their day-to-day lives without a diagnosis or the knowledge they are affected. This World Glaucoma Week (10 – 16 March), the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is drawing attention to the eye disease, also known as the ‘silent thief of sight’. Australians in the dark about 'silent thief of sight' 11th March 2024
There’s an eye disease taking hold of 300,000 Australians, with more than half going about their day-to-day lives without a diagnosis or the knowledge they are affected. This World Glaucoma Week (10 – 16 March), the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is drawing attention to the eye disease, also known as the ‘silent thief of sight’. .
To commemorate International Women’s Day (8 March) this year, we called for members to recognise and celebrate your peers and have taken a closer look at the women driving innovation and advancing ophthalmology in Australia. Among our ophthalmic leaders is Penny Stewart, Country Manager Australia and New Zealand at Alcon, who stepped into the role last year. Penny paves the way to help others “See Brilliantly” 04th March 2024
To commemorate International Women’s Day (8 March) this year, we called for members to recognise and celebrate your peers and have taken a closer look at the women driving innovation and advancing ophthalmology in Australia. Among our ophthalmic leaders is Penny Stewart, Country Manager Australia and New Zealand at Alcon, who stepped into the role last year. .
2023
Thank a sight-saving hero, thank an Ophthalmologist 07th August 2023
It’s currently a lesser-known date on the calendar, but the ASO is planning on changing this. World Ophthalmologist Day, also known as Ophthalmologist Day or International Ophthalmology Day, is an unofficial professional celebration for all specialists in medical and surgical eye disease and marked annually on August 8..
Website: ASO World Ophthalmologist Day
Four years ago, ophthalmology resident Dr Liana Dedina was performing intravitreal injection after injection at the eye clinic in Adelaide’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital when she struck an idea. Today, Liana’s idea can not only achieve substantial outcomes in waste minimisation strategies for ophthalmologists, but there are also visible lessons for the broader healthcare community. Eye on Emissions 30th May 2023
Four years ago, ophthalmology resident Dr Liana Dedina was performing intravitreal injection after injection at the eye clinic in Adelaide’s Queen Elizabeth Hospital when she struck an idea. Today, Liana’s idea can not only achieve substantial outcomes in waste minimisation strategies for ophthalmologists, but there are also visible lessons for the broader healthcare community. .
For more information download this document
On Tuesday, 9 May 2023 the Albanese Government handed down its second but first full-year annual budget since occupying office a year ago in May 2022. Your ASO has compiled a highlights package of the key deliverables for health and the areas that might impact you. Federal Budget 2023–2024 Highlights for ASO Members 10th May 2023
On Tuesday, 9 May 2023 the Albanese Government handed down its second but first full-year annual budget since occupying office a year ago in May 2022. Your ASO has compiled a highlights package of the key deliverables for health and the areas that might impact you. .
For more information download this document
Earlier this month, AHPRA and the Medical Board released new requirements for doctors who both perform and advertise cosmetic surgery. These requirements will come into effect from 1 July 2023. New Cosmetic Surgery Guidelines 26th April 2023
Earlier this month, AHPRA and the Medical Board released new requirements for doctors who both perform and advertise cosmetic surgery. These requirements will come into effect from 1 July 2023..
For more information download this document
It takes an outstanding achievement and service to be recognised on the Australian Honours list. Congratulations to the following members of the ophthalmic and broader community whose contributions to society and eye health are being formally celebrated today. Australian Honours in recognition of contributions to eye health 26th January 2023
It takes an outstanding achievement and service to be recognised on the Australian Honours list. Congratulations to the following members of the ophthalmic and broader community whose contributions to society and eye health are being formally celebrated today..
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is calling on the community to ‘slide’ on their shades as the country braces for seasonal high temperatures and conditions. Sun protection measures are recommended when the Ultraviolet (UV) Index is 3 and above, but most of mainland Australia is currently experiencing seasonal indexes within the ‘extreme’ range of 11–15. Ocular melanoma survivor warns others as UV levels reach seasonal highs 18th January 2023
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is calling on the community to ‘slide’ on their shades as the country braces for seasonal high temperatures and conditions. Sun protection measures are recommended when the Ultraviolet (UV) Index is 3 and above, but most of mainland Australia is currently experiencing seasonal indexes within the ‘extreme’ range of 11–15. .
We are urging Australians to keep an eye on safety this summer as the seasonal risk for recreational injuries is on the rise. Ophthalmologists — our respected medical eye specialists and surgeons — report summer is the leading season for patients to present with accidental eye injuries, including penetrative trauma. Don’t ‘lose sight’ of safety during recreational summer season 12th January 2023
We are urging Australians to keep an eye on safety this summer as the seasonal risk for recreational injuries is on the rise. Ophthalmologists — our respected medical eye specialists and surgeons — report summer is the leading season for patients to present with accidental eye injuries, including penetrative trauma..
2022
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is encouraging the purchase of UV-blocking eyewear as the perfect last-minute stocking-filler gift for children this Christmas. ASO encourages perfect last-minute gift to ‘slide’ into Christmas stockings 14th December 2022
The Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is encouraging the purchase of UV-blocking eyewear as the perfect last-minute stocking-filler gift for children this Christmas. .
Last week The Australian exclusively broadcast that national health insurers were failing to meet a gold standard target of returning 90% of premiums to their members. Perhaps more concerning, is the creep towards health insurer ‘managed care’ within Australia — an issue largely overlooked, poorly understood and developing insidiously. The risk and rise of health insurer ‘managed care’ in Australia 29th November 2022
Last week The Australian exclusively broadcast that national health insurers were failing to meet a gold standard target of returning 90% of premiums to their members. Perhaps more concerning, is the creep towards health insurer ‘managed care’ within Australia — an issue largely overlooked, poorly understood and developing insidiously. .
This World Diabetes Day (today), the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is drawing focal attention to the severe impacts the disease is having upon Australians and their sight. Ophthalmologists call on the community to prevent Diabetes-related vision loss 14th November 2022
This World Diabetes Day (today), the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) is drawing focal attention to the severe impacts the disease is having upon Australians and their sight. .
WORLD DIABETES DAY World Diabetes Day 01st November 2022
WORLD DIABETES DAY .
This World Sight Day, take the pledge to #LoveYourEyes World Sight Day is the perfect time for Australian’s to take the pledge to #LoveYourEyes. World Sight Day, held on Thursday 13th October, is an international event that provides an opportunity to focus the world’s attention on the importance of good eye health and vision care. World Sight Day 04th October 2022
This World Sight Day, take the pledge to #LoveYourEyes World Sight Day is the perfect time for Australian’s to take the pledge to #LoveYourEyes. World Sight Day, held on Thursday 13th October, is an international event that provides an opportunity to focus the world’s attention on the importance of good eye health and vision care. .
An independent review of the regulation of health practitioners in cosmetic surgery led by Andrew Brown, was recently conducted after a series of complaints in the cosmetic surgery space were unresolved. AHPRA and the Medical Board today released a list of recommendations post review which they claim will increase oversight of the industry. Cosmetic surgery review recommendations released 09th September 2022
An independent review of the regulation of health practitioners in cosmetic surgery led by Andrew Brown, was recently conducted after a series of complaints in the cosmetic surgery space were unresolved. AHPRA and the Medical Board today released a list of recommendations post review which they claim will increase oversight of the industry..
The ASO were pleased to attend the NSW RANZCO and Ophthalmology Updates ASM in Sydney over the weekend. ASO attends the RANZCO NSW ASM 01st September 2022
The ASO were pleased to attend the NSW RANZCO and Ophthalmology Updates ASM in Sydney over the weekend. .
A new study published by Sax Institute journal Public Health Research & Practice has highlighted the chronic underfunding of public eye care in Australia, and the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) says governments can no longer bury the issue under the guise of pandemic-related pressure on our health system. Blowout in Cataract surgery waiting lists is the tip of the iceberg for failing NSW hospitals 17th May 2022
A new study published by Sax Institute journal Public Health Research & Practice has highlighted the chronic underfunding of public eye care in Australia, and the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) says governments can no longer bury the issue under the guise of pandemic-related pressure on our health system..
Dr James Muecke, Australian of the Year and ASO spokesperson presents an informative update about the importance of healthy eating habits while avoiding the risks of diabetes Don’t turn a blind eye 17th May 2022
Dr James Muecke, Australian of the Year and ASO spokesperson presents an informative update about the importance of healthy eating habits while avoiding the risks of diabetes.
With patients throughout Australia waiting up to 2.5 years for vital eye surgeries, the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) has labelled the indefinite pause on elective surgery “as critical as COVID” and is calling on State and Territory leaders to urgently restart our hospitals. The Hazardous Truth of Waiting for Surgery 17th May 2022
With patients throughout Australia waiting up to 2.5 years for vital eye surgeries, the Australian Society of Ophthalmologists (ASO) has labelled the indefinite pause on elective surgery “as critical as COVID” and is calling on State and Territory leaders to urgently restart our hospitals..
MDA National recently warned one of their ophthalmologist Members about an unusual request from the police to breach patient confidentiality and privacy. Keeping an eye on patient privacy 08th May 2022
MDA National recently warned one of their ophthalmologist Members about an unusual request from the police to breach patient confidentiality and privacy. .
ASO alliance partner Cutcher and Neale Accounting and Financial Services will host a COVID-19 NSW stimulus webinar on Thursday 12 August at 6pm. Presented by Cutcher & Neale partner Stuart Chan, the webinar will provide valuable updates on the impact of COVID-19 specific to medical practitioners and a clear summary of all stimulus support now available in New South Wales. NSW COVID Stimulus Support Webinar with Cutcher & Neale 06th May 2022
ASO alliance partner Cutcher and Neale Accounting and Financial Services will host a COVID-19 NSW stimulus webinar on Thursday 12 August at 6pm. Presented by Cutcher & Neale partner Stuart Chan, the webinar will provide valuable updates on the impact of COVID-19 specific to medical practitioners and a clear summary of all stimulus support now available in New South Wales..
www.sendtheeaglehome.com.au IT’S time to open everyone’s eyes to the danger of US-style managed health care in Australia. Australian Society of Ophthalmologists vice president Dr Peter Sumich announced the ASO would launch an awareness campaign to alert Australians to the dangers of US-style managed health care and the potential adverse consequences for insured patients... The Eagle has landed – Send the Eagle home! 25th April 2022
www.sendtheeaglehome.com.au IT’S time to open everyone’s eyes to the danger of US-style managed health care in Australia. Australian Society of Ophthalmologists vice president Dr Peter Sumich announced the ASO would launch an awareness campaign to alert Australians to the dangers of US-style managed health care and the potential adverse consequences for insured patients....
You can now download the Member Jungle mobile app and stay up to date with what's going on our membership group. You can update your membership details and also receive notifications about important event reminders, latest news and more. Visit the Mobile App page (under Membership) to find out more. Download our New Mobile App 13th April 2022
You can now download the Member Jungle mobile app and stay up to date with what's going on our membership group. You can update your membership details and also receive notifications about important event reminders, latest news and more. Visit the Mobile App page (under Membership) to find out more..
2021
Heroic trainee ophthalmologist Dr Mitchell Lee is finally about to head home after nearly three months operating as a near ‘one-man-band’ eye service in outback New South Wales. Dr Lee made the decision to strand himself in the outback to provide a solo service as a junior doctor. A true measure of his bravery and dedication. COVID-19 Hero Heads Home 01st March 2021
Heroic trainee ophthalmologist Dr Mitchell Lee is finally about to head home after nearly three months operating as a near ‘one-man-band’ eye service in outback New South Wales. Dr Lee made the decision to strand himself in the outback to provide a solo service as a junior doctor. A true measure of his bravery and dedication..