Optometry Australia releases revamped 2025 conference calendar

Optometry Australia (OA) and its state divisions have launched their 2025 conference calendar, designed to elevate member experience “through a refreshed and impactful approach to professional development”.

In response to the evolving preferences of members post-COVID, the organisation said it was now offering a diverse range of in-person and streamed conferences covering key clinical areas prioritised to members’ needs.

Skye Cappuccio. Image: Optometry Australia.

“We understand the importance of face-to-face learning, and by streaming select content, we’re making sure that all members, no matter where they are, have access to high-quality education,” a statement said.

“OA and State Divisions are committed to delivering tailored conferences and events that provide valuable insights for daily practice. The new 2025 calendar includes a range of innovative conferences with carefully designed programs, focused on the latest trends in professional development and addressing the evolving needs of optometrists.”

In addition to regular State Division based CPD offerings, the redesigned calendar features interactive in-person conferences including hybrid events, and smaller in-person events, ensuring members can tailor a flexible, high-quality educational experience to their needs.

These include:

Optometry Clinical Conference, Melbourne (in-person): OA’s major conference is a being pitted as a must-attend event featuring international speakers, practical workshops, and an extensive tradeshow. This conference rotates among major cities each year to foster a collaborative community.
The Interactive Series (in-person): A series of five boutique conferences held in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Tasmania, Cairns and Adelaide – considered vibrant holiday destinations offering a mix of interactive learning and networking opportunities. Each conference is held across two days. Members can gain all their interactive hours in one interactive conference.
WAVE (in-person and virtual): Western Australia’s two-day educational experience offering panel discussions, therapeutic interactive content and a range of quality speakers in addition to the successful Saturday sunset sundowner and ongoing access to educational content on demand.
Canberra Conference (in-person): Focussing on myopia management in 2025, this one-day immersive learning experience to equip members with expertise and skills to grow their practice.
Tasmania’s Lifestyle Congress (in-person): A distinct experience within the Interactive Series, this two-day, intimate destination aims to offer a unique blend of local knowledge, interactive discussions, and plenty of opportunities for engaging networking in a relaxed environment.
A visual outlining the new Optometry Australia conference calendar for 2025. Image: Optometry Australia.
Super Sunday (in-person): A highlight of the optometry calendar in NSW, this one-day conference delivers thought-provoking and clinically relevant education from a line-up of engaging Australian and international presenters. In 2025, the conference will be held at the International Convention Centre alongside ODMA Fair.
Ski Conference (in-person): Held in Thredbo, for like-minded optometrists for quality CPD as well as plenty of time out on the ski runs.
Optometry Virtually Connected (online): For members who prefer flexibility, this free virtual event is offered across two separate one-day sessions allowing participants to choose presentations that interest them most, with recordings available for later access, ensuring that everyone can stay informed regardless of their ability to attend in person.
A free monthly webinar series in addition to State Division provided content.
A series of free online interactive discussion workshops.
A series of free in-person regional CPD events throughout the year.
A wealth of independent online CPD accessible 24/7 on the Optometry Australia Institute of Excellence.

Learn more about upcoming Optometry Australia and State Division conferences here.

Greater opportunities for engagement and collaboration

According to OA, the 2025 conference calendar provides many opportunities for engaging and collaborating with peers across the nation. Each conference features “a stimulating, practical learning environment”, with notable guest speakers and a trades expo.

“The 2025 conference and CPD calendar offers unparalleled opportunities for networking with thought leaders and industry experts,” OA CEO Skye Cappuccio said.

“Experts will be present at conferences to facilitate discussions during interactive sessions to encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration.”

Following member feedback, OA said it was enhancing essential topics, such as glaucoma, and introducing new topics such as artificial intelligence in optometry, to ensure members remain at the forefront of the profession.

“Feedback from members has affirmed our commitment to prioritising in-person learning experiences that foster engagement and meaningful connections,” OA said.

“As we embark on this exciting journey into 2025, OA and the state divisions look forward to providing our members value for money and delivering enriched and impactful learning experiences. For more information about the 2025 conference calendar and registration details, visit here. optometry.org.au/institute-of-excellence.