Vision Connection has rolled out a series of programs aimed at supporting independent optometry practices through education, collaboration, and structured member engagement.
Across the first quarter of the year, the buying group has delivered initiatives spanning professional development, student outreach, marketing support, and governance – signalling a broad strategic focus as the year gets underway.
Education and Industry Engagement
Vision Connection opened the year with its first webinar of 2026, delivered in partnership with Compra. The session centred on cost management and practice valuation – topics that drew a strong turnout from across the network, reflecting the appetite among independent practitioners for practical, business-focused guidance.
The group also extended its reach to the next generation of optometrists through an event at the University of Western Australia. Titled ‘Independence Unlocked’, the session attracted more than 30 optometry students and explored career pathways, the realities of practice ownership, and the role that collaborative networks can play in supporting independent practitioners.
its first webinar of 2026… centred on cost management and practice valuation – topics that drew a strong turnout from across the network
Advisory Board Established
A notable development has been the launch of the Vision Connection Advisory Board, comprising experienced independent practice owners from across the country. Board members include Belinda Musitano of Eyes@Optometry (WA), Sam Savva of Adrenaline Optometry (NSW), Ally Friend of Northam Optical (WA), and Angela Altuneg, founder of Eyes by Design.
The board is expected to play an active role in shaping the direction of Vision Connection’s programs, ensuring initiatives remain closely aligned with the day-to-day realities facing independent practices.
Member and Supplier Initiatives
On the supplier front, Vision Connection facilitated a new collaboration between VMD and Opticare, introducing the Bill Bass Package exclusively for members. The group also launched its Kids Vision campaign, providing practices with a suite of ready-to-use marketing materials to support eye care services for children – a flexible initiative that members can activate according to their own practice goals.
For new members, the First 90 Days onboarding programme offers a guided introduction to supplier relationships, marketing opportunities, and business resources available through the network.
Vision Connection CEO Joanne Scott-Dostine said the early activity reflects the organisation’s broader purpose. “Our goal is to create meaningful connections across the independent optometry community, bringing together practices, suppliers, and industry partners to help everyone grow stronger together,” she said.
Further webinars, campaigns, and industry collaborations are already in development for the remainder of 2026.
