Refer a patient overview | Vision Australia. Blindness and low vision services

The importance of referring

Associate Professor and Ophthalmologist Julian Rait says, "It’s important for professionals to refer to us when someone receives an eye condition diagnosis that could lead to blindness or low vision".

Referring patients early can help us to maximise your patient’s remaining vision. We work alongside patients of all ages and help them manage the impacts of vision loss so they can safely maintain their independence and mobility.

Refer a patient today

How we support your patients

Services for older adults

Supporting independence at home and in the community. Keeping people connected.

Services for adults

Independence matters. We provide services and support for all ages and stages of life.

Services for children and young people

Helping children and young people develop independence while supporting their families.

Funding options

Funding can unlock support, services and products to help people achieve their goals.

Technology and products

Assistive technology, products and supports for daily tasks, school, work or play.

Technology training

Personalised training available at our offices, in your home, workplace, or via telehealth.

News, events and streaming

Explore the latest news and events, listen to podcasts and radio.

Our locations

We’re located in most capital cities, and offer home visits and telehealth appointments.

The blindness and low vision experts

Vision Australia is a trusted pillar of the community with a history of supporting people who are blind or have low vision that stretches more than 150 years.

Working together, our team of experts tailor the right mix of services, strategies and products so your patients can live life on their terms. From birth to the senior years, Vision Australia is there to provide a lifetime of support.

With a national footprint, comprehensive service offering and a wide range of equipment and supports, Vision Australia is your partner in the circle of care.

Leading national provider

With a team of transdisciplinary experts working across a network of centres and via outreach programs, we support clients across Australia.

Client focused flexibility

Our extensive service offering enables clients to tailor their services and supports to meet their individual goals, so they can live life on their terms.

Support for a lifetime

From childhood to the senior years, our team of blindness and low vision professionals support people of all ages on their journey with vision loss.

Referral triggers, one or more:

Vision loss puts a patient at risk
Vision loss affects daily living
Support adjusting to vision loss
Diagnosis of an eye condition
Visual acuity of ≤ 6/12 (BEO)
Visual field of ≤ 30 degrees (BEO)

Refer a patient today

Impact to quality of life:

Increased risk of falls
Increased risk of depression
Loss of driver’s licence and independence
Issues with medication safety
Reduced communication
Personal care impeded
Domestic tasks more challenging
Childhood milestones are not being met

“We came across Vision Australia and they’ve been amazing. Through them I got my cane which I love to bits.”

— Suzanne, Vision Australia client

Suzanne shows it’s never too late to ask for help

Suzanne has lived with diabetic retinopathy for most of her life. "I've lost all side vision in my eyes. I used to walk into things like the clear security gates at supermarkets. I've broken my ribs and wrist from falls.

My son finally said, 'Enough, we need to get you some help.' We came across Vision Australia and they've been amazing. Through them I got my cane which I love to bits."

Read Suzanne’s story

James is well equipped for success

James was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa in 1990. His vision deteriorated in 2016, making it hard to get a job. With the right support, a lot of good things have happened for James, changing his life for the better.

Read James’ story

“We are grateful to Vision Australia’s employment services. The fact that James is able to keep working for us makes our lives a lot easier.”

— James’ employer

What happens after referral?

Vision Australia contacts patient.
Discussion of condition and needs.
Goals established based on needs.
Support accessing eligible funding streams.

Eligibility for funding assessed and discussed.
Services commence when funding is approved.
Aids and equipment options introduced.

Vision Australia staff review progress against goals.
New goals discussed based on needs.
Services provided again if needed.