Vision 2020 Australia has successfully advocated for a multi-million-dollar Federal Government investment into assistive technology (AT) in the Indo-Pacific, ensuring those with vision loss can continue to live independently with glasses, white canes and other low-cost devices.
The commitment is part of the new International Disability Equity and Rights Strategy, launched at Parliament House recently, ahead of International Day of People with Disability on 3 December 2025.
It includes $12 million to expand access to essential assistive technology across the Indo-Pacific.
It mirrors Vision 2020 Australia’s request of the government to allocate an additional $12 million to improve access to affordable, high-quality assistive technology and wrap around services, in partnership with Pacific-led organisations.
Vision 2020 Australia CEO Ms Carly Iles was pleased that equity and inclusion was a key objective of the new International Disability Strategy, and that support for equitable access to assistive technology has been included.
“Assistive technology plays a critical role in ensuring people with vision loss remain independent. Simple devices like glasses and white canes can transform lives, helping people to see and navigate effectively, benefiting the health, economic and social well-being of individuals and communities,” she said.
“Well-prescribed, low-cost equipment enables people with irreversible vision loss to perform daily tasks independently, and for those with reversible vision loss, assistive technology solutions like glasses can correct vision, minimising the risk of adverse health outcomes including depression, falls, hip fractures and dementia.
“The need in the Indo-Pacific for access to assistive technology is immense.”
Iles thanked the government and Minister for International Development and the Pacific, Mr Pat Conroy, for acting on the recommendation.
“As the national peak for eye health and vision care, this call for action has been led by our members with expertise in the region,” she said. “Such as The Fred Hollows Foundation, the Brien Holden Vision Foundation and CBM Australia, as well as consultation and support from like-minded organisations including The Australian Council for International Development (ACFID), and the Australian Disability and Development Consortium (ADDC).”
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