World Ophthalmologist Day
8 August | #ThankanOphthalmologist
It’s currently a lesser-known date on the calendar, but the ASO is changing this.
World Ophthalmologist Day, also known as Ophthalmologist Day or International Ophthalmology Day, is celebrated annually on August 8. It is an unofficial professional holiday for all specialists in medical and surgical eye disease.
In 2023, the ASO launched its inaugural campaign, which is now celebrated from the start of August each year.
Our aim with the annual ASO World Ophthalmologist Day campaign?
• raise the profile of Australian ophthalmologists
• increase community awareness about the crucial role of ophthalmologists in eye health
• encourage recognition and appreciation of ophthalmologists through the hashtag and campaign concept — #ThankanOphthalmologist
What does an Ophthalmologist do?
An Ophthalmologist is an eye doctor and surgeon who specialises in diagnosing and managing disorders of the eye and visual system.
In simple terms? They save the gift of sight!
How many sight-saving heroes are out there?
There are currently almost 1,100 registered Ophthalmologists in Australia.
While the practice of Ophthalmology is an extremely expensive medical specialist practice, it remains a highly competitive medical speciality.
This is good, in that it means patients continue to be guaranteed the highest quality ophthalmic care across Australia and New Zealand.
Why are eye surgeons the ultimate authority on eye health?
Ophthalmology requires a minimum of 12 years of tertiary study, first attaining a medical degree, completing internship and residency as a doctor, and then undertaking further specialist study as an Ophthalmologist.
There are some conditions only their specialist-trained eye can see!
With 9 in 10 Australians reflecting that ‘sight’ is their most valued sense, it’s high time we created strong public sentiment for ophthalmologists and our sight-saving specialty!
You can show your support for our campaign by sharing your stories and photos with the hashtag — #ThankanOphthalmologist — or downloading and using the promotional materials below.
In 2025, this includes participating in the inaugural colouring competition from wherever you live in the world.
Social Media Tile Design #1 for Ophthalmologists
Share me on the social platforms you choose to provide information.
Click here to download our Social Media Tile Design #1 for Ophthalmologists.
Social Media Tile Design #2 for Ophthalmologists
Share me on the social platforms you choose to provide information.
Click here to download our Social Media Tile Design #2 for Ophthalmologists.
Social Media Tile Design #1 for Patients and Community
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Click here to download our Social Media Tile Design #1 for Patients and Community.
Social Media Tile Design #2 for Patients and Community
Share me on the social platforms you choose to provide information.
Click here to download our Social Media Tile Design #2 for Patients and Community.
Social Media WOD Fact Tile #1
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Social Media WOD Fact Tile #2
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Social Media WOD Fact Tile #3
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Social Media WOD Fact Tile #4
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A4 Poster
Display me in your private clinic, tearoom, office or wherever you choose to share information.
A4 Colouring Sheet | Super Eye Hero
Colour me in and help the community to see the world in colour — and appreciate caring for our eyes!
A4 Colouring Sheet | Super Eye Surgeon
Colour me in and help the community to see the world in colour — and appreciate caring for our eyes!
International Colouring Competition
Calling for your eye-conic submissions!
In 2025, the ASO is launching its first international colouring competition to celebrate World Ophthalmologist Day — not only in Australia but with our friends and peers across the globe!
How to participate
Select and download a colouring sheet of your choice: Super Eye Surgeon or Super Eye Hero.
Choose your art medium and start colouring away!
When your masterpiece is finished and ready to submit, take a photo and upload it via the submission form at the end of this web page.
If you want the world to see it, tag us in your social media posts on Facebook or email a photo of you with your submission to info@asoeye.org and we will share it across ASO socials and in our monthly member e-newsletter.
Want to spread the word? Download and share our promotional A4 poster.
Winners
All winners will be announced by Monday, 25 August 2025 and receive a gift pack.
