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On the eve of World Sight Day, over 100 attendees gathered at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia’ capital, for Vision 2020 Australia’s annual Parliamentary Friends Group for Eye Health and Vision Care event. The event included an exhibition and cocktail reception and is a yearly highlight for Australia’s eye health sector, bringing together influential voices — including ministers, parliamentarians, department advisors, and sector executives — to reinforce a shared commitment to advancing the eye health sector and ensure it receives the political, health, and developmental focus it needs and deserves.
Vision 2020 Australia also welcomed their new co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends Group for Eye Health and Vision Care, Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker. A passionate advocate for eye health, Libby will continue the legacy of the outgoing co-Chair Meryl Swanson and will support with keeping eye health high on the list of priorities of Australia’s public health agenda.
World Sight Day Celebration with the largest eye screening in Parliament
To mark World Sight Day on October 10th, Vision 2020 Australia celebrated with a full day of eye screening in Parliament House Canberra in partnership with the University of Canberra and Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. This was the biggest eye screening day ever conducted by Vision 2020 Australia, with 131 parliamentarians and staff participating. The eye screenings underscored the message of World Sight Day campaign #LoveYourEyes, which encourages everyone to prioritize their eye health and seek regular eye exams.
This year’s #LoveYourEyes campaign shone a light on children’s eye health, emphasizing that accessible, affordable, and high-quality eye care for children is crucial, as even mild vision impairment can impact their educational and developmental opportunities. Early intervention is key to ensuring every child has the chance to reach their full potential, both academically and economically.
The event underscored the importance of advocacy in eye health, as Vision 2020 Australia and its partners continue to champion accessible, affordable eye care for all. Events like the Parliamentary Friends Group for Eye Health and Vision Care function and the World Sight Day celebration strengthen the relationships and support needed to make this goal achievable.
Together, with the dedication of Australia’s leaders, health professionals, and advocates, Vision 2020 Australia is working toward a future where everyone can #LoveYourEyes.
