About us

The Australian College of Optometry (ACO) is a not-for-profit organisation committed to improving eye health and well-being through accessible public eye care services, leading clinical research and innovative optometry education.

Our Mission

To improve the eye health and well-being of communities through innovation, partnership, and leadership across clinical services, research, and education. We provide high-quality, public health-focused optometry services for communities in need, leading best practices in eye care. Our research efforts focus on producing impactful, internationally recognised studies to advance the understanding of vision science and improve eye care practices. Additionally, we offer educational pathways designed to support optometrists from pre-registration through to professional practice, ensuring best practice in eye care.

Our story

What We Do

Clinical Services

Comprehensive public eye care across our Melbourne clinic network and outreach programs, including delivery of the Victorian Eyecare Service and Victorian Aboriginal Spectacles Subsidy Scheme.

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Outreach services

Our diverse outreach programs provide comprehensive, culturally safe care to vulnerable communities in Melbourne and across Victoria experiencing barriers to mainstream care.

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Research

Our research arm, the National Vision Research Institute, undertakes internationally recognised research to improve the understanding of vision science and eye care.

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Education

We are a leader in lifelong learning for optometrists, providing unique development resources for working professionals and supporting optometry students with clinical training.

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Membership

As a Member-based organisation, Members play an important role in ACO’s governance. Members support our public health work and can access exclusive benefits.

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Become an ACO Member

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Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Eye Health

We are committed to reducing avoidable blindness in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities by partnering with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, the Commonwealth Government, and community members.

In collaboration with the Victorian State Government, the ACO delivers the Victorian Eyecare Service (VES) and Victorian Aboriginal Spectacles Subsidy Scheme (VASSS), enhancing access to essential eye care services and affordable visual aids for First Nations communities.

For over 25 years, we have proudly partnered with the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service (VAHS) to provide culturally safe and accessible eye care through a dedicated clinic at VAHS’ Fitzroy site, ensuring high-quality care that respects and supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health needs.

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Diversity & Inclusion

The ACO strives to ensure a culturally safe, welcoming and inclusive eye care service and work environment for all people, including but not limited to: all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexualities and abilities.

We recognise that our organisation, the care we provide, and our interactions are strengthened by diversity.

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