The vast majority of optical dispensers in Australia feel they are not being fairly compensated for their role, according to a national survey providing new insights into optometry support staff pay rates and working conditions.
The Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA) 2025 National Wage Survey – that garnered a significant 451 responses – revealed the most common wage bracket was $25-30 per hour (35%) for optical dispensers and other practice support staff, with 31% paid $30-35 per hour.
It also found around one in five are working more than 40 hours per week and that optical assistants who become dispensers through a Certifercate IV qualification don’t always get a meaningful pay increase.
ODA CEO Ms April Petrusma was motivated to conduct the survey after regularly fielding calls from the industry seeking clarity around pay rates, awards, and employment contracts.
“The strong response rate likely reflects just how widespread these concerns are – people are eager to have their voices heard and to gain insight into how their pay and conditions compare to others,” she said.
Petrusma said it was apparent optical dispensers felt undervalued.
While hourly rates between $25-35 may seem reasonable at first glance, she said they often fall short when considering the level of expertise and accountability expected of dispensers.
“The majority of survey respondents expressed frustration that their wages do not reflect the specialised nature of their work,” she said, noting dispensing also isn’t a typical retail job.
“Serving patients often requires staying back to complete administrative tasks, finalise orders, manage complex prescriptions, or ensure a patient receives the care they need – no matter the time.
“Optical dispensing is a skilled profession that requires ongoing learning, precision, and problem-solving – yet it’s often not recognised or rewarded accordingly in pay structures. This disconnect needs to be addressed if practices want to attract and retain skilled dispensers who contribute so much to their success.”
One of the most striking outcomes for Petrusma was that more than 70% of dispensers felt they are not being fairly compensated.
“That’s a significant number and speaks volumes about the disconnect between the value of the work and the recognition it receives,” she said.
Several respondents reported infrequent or minimal pay increases that do not keep pace with the rising cost of living or their increasing experience and responsibilities. Many also highlighted the absence of penalty rates for late nights, weekends, public holidays, and out-of-hours meetings. The lack of loading on annual leave was also a point of contention.
“Another common concern among respondents was the presence of unqualified individuals earning similar wages to those who are formally trained,” Petrusma said.
“This not only undermines the value of the [Cert IV] qualification but can also discourage further professional development within the field.”
The survey found if dispensers were being paid according to an award, it was more likely to be the General Retail Industry Award, rather than the Health Professionals and Support Services Award.
This has created “strong resentment” among respondents and was demoralising, Petrusma said.
There is now a “a clear and growing call” within the industry for the creation of an award specifically for optometry practice support staff, including qualified optical dispensers.
“This was strongly reflected in the survey results and aligns with the feedback I regularly receive from members,” Petrusma said.
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