The growth of Optical Dispensers Australia during the past three years is evident for all to see ahead of its 2025 conference that will have a strong international influence.
Since its launch in 2022, Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA) has introduced a fresh standard of expertise and structure to a profession that was calling for clearer direction since deregulation many years ago.
Now, optical dispensers have somewhere to turn to for advice, continuing professional development and employment opportunities. Someone in their corner. And, importantly, dedicated events to network and dissect the issues impacting the everyday optical dispenser.
So often, optical dispensing education has been limited to a ‘stream’ as part of a larger industry event. But, as ODA CEO Ms April Petrusma says, optical dispensing is a “unique, multifaceted profession”, demanding a diverse skill set and evolving in response to technological advancements and ongoing research.
To remain competent, it’s essential for optical dispensers to keep on top of the latest product innovations, new dispensing techniques, and emerging research findings.
In other words, they face an unusual set of challenges, prompting her organisation to run its inaugural national conference in 2023 in Sydney.
It was a resounding success, marking the largest and first event of its kind in Australia “created by dispensers, for dispensers”.
But ODA will be eclipsing that on 7-8 March when it hosts the 2025 ODA International Conference. Everything about it will be bigger and better. If the venue – InterContinental Sydney – isn’t enough to go by, or the fact ODA is collaborating with the International Opticians Association (IOA) this time around, then one only needs to look at the speaker line-up.
It’s a high-powered contingent, with several flying in from overseas to deliver talks on various subjects now in the dispenser’s sphere, such as myopia management, and other topics like dispensing for children, frame selection communication techniques, and dispensing atypical lens orders, plus more.
“The program has been curated through extensive research into current industry trends and challenges, allowing us to focus on the most relevant topics for our delegates,” says Petrusma.
“We have partnered with prominent experts and industry innovators to assemble an impressive line-up of speakers, each offering unique perspectives and invaluable insights. Our collaboration with the ODA community has also played a big part in helping us identify key themes that resonate with today’s optical dispensers.”
Regardless of job title role or level of experience, she is confident the program will inspire attendees and equip them with knowledge to elevate their skills.
“We also haven’t forgotten about the importance of growth through networking. During the breaks within the exhibitor areas, delegates will have ample opportunity to optimise their interactions with suppliers over complimentary refreshments,” she adds.
Another highlight of this event is the ODA Gala – taking place on the evening of Friday, 7 March – where the presentation of the coveted ODA National Excellence Awards will recognise some of the industry’s top performers.
The evening includes the Australasian College of Optical Dispensing (ACOD) Cert IV graduation ceremony too. The last gala in Sydney in 2023 saw a record 246 guests attend, with ODA anticipating similar numbers for 2025. But beyond the networking opportunities and celebrations, it’s the speaker line-up that’ll provide the biggest magnet.
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Speakers
B.I.G. Vision: See more of the world – the visual system in all its integrity for the creation of lens designs
Dr Alexandra Sipatchin, Ph.D. neuroscientist, international product & project manager at Rodenstock
Dr Sipatchin will deliver a scientific exploration to develop Rodenstock’s latest B.I.G. EXACT Sensitive lenses, coming to Australia soon. She will explain how advanced biometric measurements are combined with the wearer’s unique visual needs to optimise lens design beyond traditional standards.
Current trends in myopia management
Prof Padmaja Sankaridurg, Professor at UNSW, head of global myopia management at ZEISS
Exploring the far-reaching consequences of myopia, Prof Sankaridurg will also discuss the latest in myopia control, such as orthokeratology, soft contact lenses, and pharmacologic options. Plus, she will delve into factors influencing effective management, including age, compliance, and individual patient needs. Optical dispensers will obtain actionable advice, including patient selection, treatment plans, and monitoring.
Meeting the dispensing needs of our children & inclusive eyecare
Fiona Anderson, dispensing optician, Upper Warden Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers UK
Anderson will deliver two lectures. The first will explore the nuances of
paediatric dispensing, including how to foster trust and compliance. Considering facial anatomy and development, frame fit, and comfort will also be discussed. Her second talk will focus on children and vulnerable adults with additional needs – whether they’re physical, such as facial or cranial abnormalities, or physiological. She will highlight common syndromes in paediatric care and offer strategies for ethical dispensing.
Emmetropisation in the human visual system, biometry, position of wear
Grant Hannaford, ophthalmic physicist, director of AAOO & 2022 IOA International Optician of the Year
This lecture will describe the process of ocular growth and outline strategies for providing optimal ophthalmic lens fittings. Core concepts will include: emmetropisation processes and the aetiology of refractive errors, optically imposed blur and the impact on growth and refractive outcomes, impact of optical and biometric interaction, and a case study in lens interactions in the developing eye, plus more.
Fiji, beyond the practice walls: Seeing past the plastic
Nathan Adams, lecturer at the College of Theology & Evangelism Fiji + Ambassadors of Christ South Pacific
While many envision Fiji as a tropical paradise, many locals struggle to access essential services. Adams will highlight how optical dispensers can help address big issues like poverty, limited healthcare access, and a lack of basic necessities. By extending their expertise beyond their practice walls, they can make a significant impact on the lives of not only Fijians, but those within their own practice communities.
Unlocking the early presbyope market & navigating the myopia maze
Ulli Hentschel, optical dispenser, national training & development manager at Hoya Lens Australia
Hentschel will divide his time across two lectures. The first will delve into the emerging – and potentially lucrative – early presbyopia market, encompassing digitally focused patients in their late 30s to mid-40s and their heavy near and intermediate demands. His second talk, on myopia, will cover the latest progression research and various management options, including combination therapy and HOYA’s MiYOSMART spectacle lens.
A passion for design, colour and originality
Claire Ferreira, frame designer at Face á Face, co-artistic director at Design Eyewear Group
Ferreira, behind many of the eyewear designs available through supplier Eyes Right Optical, will offer a glimpse into her design philosophy and the inspiration behind her iconic frames. Attendees can learn how colour choices evoke emotions and enhance personal style, hear about emerging trends and how innovation will shape the industry.
Boutique lenses and boutique problems
Craig Johnston, optical mechanic, national sales & marketing manager at Younger Optics
Unravelling the complexities of eyewear, Johnston will tackle extreme prescriptions and how to leverage specialised labs for exceptional results. The intricacies of variable and nominated inset progressives will be discussed, along with the science behind DriveWear photochromic lenses.
Effective communication techniques for frame selection
Samantha Day, dispensing optician, national dispensing manager at Matthews Eyecare NZ
Communication skills, particularly during frame selection, are essential to building lasting patient relationships. Day’s lecture will prompt dispensers to consider body language, choice of language, and tone to create a more engaging and supportive environment. The importance of empathy, honesty, and collaboration will be emphasised, as well as insightful lifestyle questions to understand the patient’s needs.
The optical dispenser: Low vision and how to help
Nabill Jacob, senior orthoptist, clinical relationship manager at Vision Australia
Jacob will outline how optical dispensers can identify patients with low vision and refer them for appropriate assessment and rehabilitation. The presentation will also canvas low vision aids and devices, including magnifiers, telescopes, and specialised eyewear. Plus, attendees can learn communication techniques and counselling strategies so patients can make informed decisions about their management.
Decoding frames: data and psychology
Shiva Taghvaei, optical dispenser, senior commercial manager at Safilo Australia
Taghvaei will explore the transformative power of data analytics and consumer psychology. By leveraging insights on local trends, purchasing patterns, and social media influence, practices can choose frame collections that better align with customer preferences and boost sales. Touching on sustainability, she will outline the importance of catering to environmentally-conscious customers and contributing to a more sustainable future.
Being a competitive optical dispenser
Justin Chiang, optical dispenser, general manager at Tokai Optical Australia
To help optical dispensers thrive in today’s competitive market, Chiang will talk to the importance of understanding one’s strengths, setting goals, and exploring diverse career opportunities. Continuous learning and staying updated on industry trends are crucial, he will say, along with developing a strategic mindset to capitalise on emerging trends, enhance patient experiences, and drive business growth.
Improving dispensing outcomes through behaviour profiling
Virgilia Readett, optical dispenser, senior trainer & assessor at the Australasian College of Optical Dispensing
Are you a dove, owl, peacock, or an eagle? By understanding these distinct personality types within the D.O.P.E. evaluation framework, Readett will show how optical professionals can enhance their communication and dispensing techniques. Through case studies and practical tips, attendees can learn to identify behavioural types and tailor their approach.
Case studies: Atypical lens orders
Fiona Om, optometrist, professional services manager at CR Labs
Navigating the challenges of high-powered prescriptions and significant interocular differences can be daunting, but Om hopes to equip the audience with the tools to tackle these complex cases. High-power prescriptions, significant power differences between the eyes and frame considerations will be covered. So will optimising lens design, strategies to balance prism, minimising thickness and weight, frame fit, and patient comfort for optimal performance.
More reading
April Petrusma’s 2025 industry predictions
ODA members deliver grins as well as glasses during Fiji trip
ODA Gala 2024 – highlights from optical dispensing’s night of nights
