National Framework

• ACT Vision Initiative
• Queensland Vision Initiative
• Tasmania Vision Initiative

In July 2004, the Australian Health Ministers’ Conference agreed to develop a national plan for Australia to promote eye health and reduce the incidence of avoidable blindness. This initiative represents Australia’s response to World Health Assembly (WHA) resolution WHA 56.26 on the elimination of avoidable blindness in member countries.

The National Framework for Action to Promote Eye Health and Prevent Avoidable Blindness and Vision Loss (National Framework) was developed by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing, in consultation with all other state and territory governments, in accordance with the WHA resolution. It aims to provide a blueprint for nationally coordinated action by governments, health professionals, non-government organisations, industry and individuals to work in partnership.

The National Framework does not focus on any one specific condition, but outlines five key action areas:

• Reducing the risk of eye disease and injury.
• Increasing early detection.
• Improving access to eye health care services.
• Improving the systems and quality of care.
• Improving the underlying evidence base.

In the 2006-07 Budget the Australian Government provided funding of $13.8 million over four years for a National Eye Health Initiative (NEHI) to promote eye health and to strengthen eye health service delivery. The NEHI funds a range of activities including projects funded under the NEHI demonstration grants program. The Vision Initiative works closely with member organisations across Australia to collaborate on demonstration grants projects with a similar aim to raise awareness of eye health and vision care.

For more information about the National Framework or the NEHI, please visit the Department of Health and Ageing website.