Applications are invited for Optometry Australia’s July 2026 Advanced Practice Recognition (APR) program, which focuses on glaucoma care.
APR provides a clear, credible and evidence-based pathway for experienced optometrists who have demonstrated advanced capability beyond entry-level competency standards. And according to Optometry Australia’s Director of Education and Research, Dr Nicola Anstice, it represents an important milestone in the profession’s ongoing evolution and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care.
“Advanced Practice Recognition (Glaucoma) formally acknowledges optometrists who have demonstrated advanced clinical expertise, leadership and commitment to excellence in glaucoma care,” Dr Anstice said.
“As demand for eye care services continues to grow, recognising advanced clinical capability helps strengthen patient care, supports professional development and reinforces the valuable role optometrists play within collaborative healthcare teams.”
APR… provides a rigorous, evidence-based framework that acknowledges excellence in practice and helps showcase the depth of expertise that exists within the optometry profession
A Recognition And Credentialling Framework
APR is a recognition and credentialling framework, not a change to regulatory scope of practice or registration status. All therapeutically endorsed optometrists are recognised as having met the Entry-level Competency Standards for Optometry, which include diagnosing and managing patients living with glaucoma.
Applicants are required to demonstrate advanced expertise by submitting an evidence portfolio, documented clinical experience, a case log, case studies, reflective practice activities, and a clinical discussion interview.
The framework has been developed to recognise demonstrated expertise in real-world practice and provide greater visibility of advanced clinical capability across the profession.
Dr Anstice said APR supports the future direction of optometry outlined in Optometry 2040.
“Australia faces increasing demand for eye care services due to population growth, an ageing population and the rising prevalence of chronic eye disease,” she said.
“APR helps prepare the profession for these future challenges by supporting clinical leadership, encouraging lifelong learning and creating meaningful pathways for advanced career development.”
Confidence In Collaborative Models
The program also strengthens confidence in collaborative models of care by providing formal recognition of practitioners who have demonstrated advanced expertise in managing more complex clinical presentations.
“Importantly, APR recognises demonstrated expertise rather than potential capability. It provides a rigorous, evidence-based framework that acknowledges excellence in practice and helps showcase the depth of expertise that exists within the optometry profession.”
APR aims to support workforce sustainability by recognising experienced clinicians, fostering leadership and encouraging ongoing professional growth. Upon completion of the program, candidates will also gain the award of Optometry Australia Credentialled Advanced Practitioner – Glaucoma (OACAP-G).
Optometrists interested in applying can access eligibility requirements, program information and application resources via Optometry Australia’s website.
