An ABC News story, highlighting the transformative impact of early detection of vision conditions, has added weight to Optometry South Australia’s call for a universal pre-school vision screening program in that state.
The story featured South Australian (SA) mother Carole Thornley, who described the life-changing impact of early detection, after her daughter Lucy was diagnosed with significant vision conditions that could have progressed without timely intervention.
“The screening referred her to see an optometrist, who diagnosed her with asymmetric hyperopia with astigmatism; conditions that, without early detection, could have led to a turned or lazy eye,” Ms Thornley said on the program.
Referencing the campaign to initiate a universal screening program in SA she said, “You love your children; you want to give your children the best opportunity in life…a simple little thing like this can give your child the best opportunity.”
Watch the ABC coverage here.
Without a universal pre-school vision screening program, South Australia remains out of step with the likes of Western Australia, New South Wales and Queensland
Screening Proposal with SA Minister
Optometry Australia alongside the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO), Orthoptics Australia, and eye health leaders in South Australia, have formally presented a proposal for universal four-year-old vision screening to the SA Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Honourable Chris Picton, who is actively considering the recommendation.
Optometrist and SA State Lead for Optometry Australia, Cassandra Haines, said early detection remains one of the most effective and affordable ways to support children’s development.
“Universal pre-school vision screening is evidence-based, cost-effective, and can have lifelong impact,” Ms Haines said. “Far too many vision issues go undetected until they affect a child’s learning and confidence. A state-wide program would ensure every child starts school with the vision they need to thrive.”
SA ophthalmologist Dr Joanna Black agreed. “The evidence is clear: early vision screening changes outcomes,” Dr Black said. “Simple conditions, if missed, can lead to permanent impairment and years of avoidable challenges in the classroom. Universal pre-school vision screening is a practical and proven way to support children’s development across the state.”
Why Early Screening Matters
Undiagnosed vision conditions can significantly affect children’s learning, development and wellbeing. Flinders University research (2021–2023) found that 17% of Year 3 children failed a vision screening, most commonly due to previously undiagnosed refractive error. Conditions such as amblyopia, or lazy eye, can lead to irreversible vision loss if not treated early, while uncorrected refractive error directly affects educational outcomes.
A Gap South Australia Must Address
Without a universal pre-school vision screening program, South Australia remains out of step with the likes of Western Australia, New South Wales and Queensland. While the state’s Child and Family Health Service (CaFHS) 4–5-year-old check includes a vision assessment, only about 40% of children attend, and follow-up pathways are inconsistent.
A universal program would align with the South Australian Preventive Health Strategy, the First 1,000 Days priorities, and the approaches adopted in New South Wales, Western Australia and Queensland.
