By 2020, it is expected that over 800,000 people aged over 40 will be blind or living with vision loss in Australia.
Many services and supports can assess your needs to help you adjust to vision loss, and make the most of your vision. They work with you to learn new ways to carry out everyday tasks to make sure you can continue to be independent and participate in your chosen activities.
These services and supports are provided by specialist organisations as well as some optometrists and some ophthalmologists.
You do not need a referral to access these services and supports (excluding ophthalmology).
How these services can help
Services and supports can help with reading, writing, using a computer or cooking, moving about your home, at work and in the community safely as well as participating in your favourite social, sport and cultural activities.
Some organisations may also provide counselling services, local support groups and employment services.
For more information
To find out the services and supports available in your local area, speak to your optometrist, ophthalmologist or GP.
To find a local optometrist visit the website of Optometry Victoria.
To find a local ophthalmologist visit the website of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists.
You can also visit our page on Information and support