Young Fellow Support
Supporting Young Fellows
Your Career in Ophthalmology Starts Here
Becoming a fully qualified ophthalmologist in Australia is a journey that demands years of dedication, skill and resilience. After completing a medical degree and a minimum of two years of pre-vocational training, aspiring ophthalmologists must gain entry into the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO) Vocational Training Program (VTP) — one of the most competitive speciality training pathways in the country.
The VTP is a five-year program comprising two years of basic training focused on ophthalmic sciences and clinical competencies, followed by advanced training in integrated clinical and surgical skills across the breadth of ophthalmology. Trainees must pass a series of rigorous examinations, including the Ophthalmic Sciences exams, the Ophthalmic Pathology exam, and the RANZCO Advanced Clinical Examination (RACE). Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO) — the highest professional membership category, signifying they are qualified to practise as independent specialist ophthalmologists. Many newly qualified fellows also pursue additional subspeciality fellowship training to further refine their expertise.
It's an extraordinary achievement — and at the ASO, we believe these young fellows deserve strong support as they take their first steps into independent practice.
The ASO Young Fellows Dinner with Cutcher & Neale
Transitioning from training into practice brings a new set of challenges that go well beyond the clinical. From navigating the financial realities of setting up or joining a practice, to understanding tax structures, superannuation and wealth management, newly qualified ophthalmologists face a steep learning curve in the business of medicine.
That's why the ASO partners with Cutcher & Neale, our preferred accounting and wealth partner, to host the annual Young Fellows Dinner in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. These intimate, relaxed evenings bring together newly qualified ophthalmologists for an opportunity to connect with peers, learn about the ASO and the advocacy work we do on behalf of the profession, and gain valuable insights into the financial fundamentals of entering practice. It's a chance to build your network, ask questions and start your career on a strong foundation — all in good company over a great meal.
ASO Academy Webinars
The ASO Academy is a professional education platform designed to support ophthalmology practices and health sector professionals through high-value, practical learning opportunities. The Academy delivers expert-led webinars and training focused on the critical business, legal and professional topics that matter most — from cybersecurity and compliance to practice management and financial strategy.
We tailor our Academy content for younger doctors, ensuring sessions are relevant and accessible to those in the early stages of their careers. Whether you're navigating your first practice role or building the business acumen to support long-term success, the ASO Academy is here to help you grow.
New Fellow Membership
The ASO is committed to making membership accessible for those just starting out. Our New Fellow membership rate offers full ASO membership at a reduced annual subscription for ophthalmologists within their first two years of practice.
New Fellow Membership — $695 per year
As a New Fellow member, you'll enjoy full access to everything the ASO offers, including:
- Full access to the ASO website and member resources
- ASO newsletters and the ASO Members Bulletin
- Attendance at all ASO events
- A strong voice advocating for your profession and your patients
- Access to ASO Alliance Partner benefits, including exclusive offers from Cutcher & Neale, MDA National, BMW, and more
Membership is available as an auto-renewing or manual yearly renewal subscription, and can be cancelled at any time.
To be eligible, applicants must be registered as a medical practitioner within Australia or New Zealand and be qualified as an ophthalmologist or ophthalmology registrar by the applicable accredited College.