Optometry trust invites grant applications

The purpose of the Victorian Optometrists Training and Education (VOTE) Trust is to advance and foster the practice of optometry, principally in Victoria, through research and education, to improve patient outcomes.Optometry Board of Australia (OBA) chair Mr Ian Bluntish said the sche also seeks to improve Victorian optometrists’ ability to practice and Victorian students’ ability to undertake training principally in Victoria.“The VOTE trust is looking to support projects that endeavour to benefit Victorian optometrists and their patients and display a broader benefit to optometrists and the public,” he explained.Previous grants have gone to a study looking at the impact of supervised student consultations on patient acceptance and satisfaction in a public health eye clinic, and a clinical trial to treat people with age-related macular degeneration.The VOTE Trust was established in 2010 by the Optometrists Registration Board of Victoria from funds accumulated and held by the board.From 1 July 2010, a national registration and accreditation sche was introduced for optometry and other health professions in Australia and the Optometrists Registration Board in Victoria ceased to exist.  While part of the funds were transferred to the then newly established OBA, a reserve fund was to be transferred to a trustee. The VOTE Trust was established with the initial funds to be held in perpetuity, invested and the income from the fund dispersed through annual grants and awards.Applications for VOTE Trust grants close on 16 Septber.