Ms Cassandra Haines, South Australia state lead Optometry Australia, and ophthalmologist Dr Joanna Black are calling on the South Australia Government to commit to a universal pre-school vision screening program for all four-year-olds in South Australia, delivered through kindergartens and long day-care centres.
In a media release, they said the program would have to include robust referral and follow-up pathways, connecting families with SA Health services and community optometrists as appropriate.
Haines said that every child deserved the chance to see and learn clearly from the start.
“Universal pre-school vision screening is a simple, evidence-based program that would deliver real outcomes for South Australian children,” she said.
“Too often, vision problems go undetected until they start affecting a child’s learning, development and confidence. By investing in early detection, we can make sure children are not held back by something as treatable as poor vision.
“This is an opportunity for the South Australian Government to lead with policy that builds strong foundations, so every child is ready to thrive at school and in life.”
Optometry Australia (OA) said undiagnosed vision conditions could have lifelong impacts on children’s learning, development, and wellbeing.
Research by Flinders University (2021–2023) found that 17% of Year 3 children failed a vision screening due to an undiagnosed vision condition, most commonly refractive error.
Correcting children’s vision was also one of the most cost-effective health interventions available, it said.
At present, South Australia did not provide universal pre-school vision screening. While vision checks were included in the Child and Family Health Service (CaFHS) health and development check for 4–5-year-olds, only an estimated 40% of children accessed this service, and follow-up care was inconsistent, OA said.
This meant too many children were starting school without essential vision problems being identified and addressed.
A universal vision screening program would bring South Australia in line with other mainland states and territories, such as New South Wales, Western Australia and Queensland, that already have, or are implementing, universal vision screening.
Later this month, Haines and Dr Black will be hosting a launch event to draw attention to their joint proposal for universal vision screening, calling for urgent government investment.
