Optometry Australia (OA) is encouraging members with advanced experience in glaucoma care to apply for its Advanced Practice Recognition (APR) program, with applications for the first 2026 intake now open.
In a media release, OA said the member-exclusive initiative was a cornerstone of its long-term vision for the profession, designed to formally recognise optometrists with advanced clinical expertise while supporting career progression and workforce sustainability.
“The APR program keeps experienced optometrists engaged, creates clear advanced career pathways and improves collaboration within optometry and across professions, within the existing workforce,” said Dr Nicola Anstice, director of education and research at OA,
“By recognising expertise in glaucoma care, the APR program enables optometrists to manage more complex cases in collaborative models by building leadership depth and positioning the profession to play a greater role in meeting eye health demand.”
Graduates of the program will earn the Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma (OACAP-G) credential, signifying Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma (OACAP-G), signalling their expertise in managing more complex glaucoma cases in clinical practice.
A pathway for advanced clinical recognition
The release said the program had been established as part of OA’s efforts to realise its preferred future for optometry in 2040, supporting long-term career planning, professional growth and retention of highly skilled clinicians within the profession.
“The APR program empowers optometrists to be recognised for advanced practice while delivering high-quality, evidence-based glaucoma care within their existing scope of practice,” Dr Anstice said.
“It’s a forward-looking initiative that supports lifelong learning and the evolving role of optometry in Australia’s eye healthcare landscape.”
Strengthening collaboration and patient access
The program is also designed to strengthen collaborative care pathways between optometrists and ophthalmologists, helping to improve timely access to care for patients with glaucoma.
Credentialled practitioners can use the OACAP-G title and logo, gain access to exclusive symposia and peer networks and unlock opportunities in education, speaking and future program assessment roles.
“By formally recognising advanced expertise, we can enhance co-management opportunities, streamline referrals and ultimately improve patient outcomes,” Dr Anstice said.
“These benefit not only individual practitioners, but also the broader health system and community by supporting more efficient, team-based care.”
Who is eligible to apply?
To be eligible, applicants must be:
- An active OA member;
- A therapeutically endorsed optometrist registered to practise in Australia or New Zealand;
- Have a minimum of five years’ clinical experience;
- Demonstrate advanced experience in glaucoma care management;
- Commit to completing the program over approximately four months (with part-time options considered on a case-by-case basis).
A pathway to recognition
OA said two intake rounds would run in 2026, one commencing in March and the other in July/August, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis and capped at 20 candidates per round.
To begin the assessment process, members must submit an application form, CV and cover letter to apr@optometry.org.au.
Once accepted into the round, successful applicants will then be required to:
- Provide evidence of clinical experience in glaucoma through patient case logs and/or recognition of prior experience.
- Submit two case reports (maximum 3,000 words each).
- Demonstrate leadership competencies.
- Participate in a clinical discussion Interview.
For further information or support with the application process, members can visit OA’s website on the APR program or contact the APR team at apr@optometry.org.au.
Applications close Monday, 23 March.
