Australian Eye Health Statistics: By Eye Health, Eye Care Habit, Eyewear Use
Updated · Feb 10, 2025
Table of Contents
Australian eye health statistics: Eye conditions and vision issues are often seen as a part of life and aging; as such, many don’t prioritize eye health when checking their overall wellness. Vision changes typically increase with age but often progress slowly and subtly. Those with an eye condition may not realize they have it due to the undetected symptoms. By the time it noticeably affects sight, it is often much more difficult to treat. As Australia’s population ages, more and more older Australians are affected by vision loss and even dual sensory impairment as hearing deteriorates. Low vision can further isolate individuals, making it difficult to participate in conversations about their health, access information, and socialize and communicate with others. This article will bring more attention to the state of Australia’s eye health, what habits they’re aware of and follow, and the eyewear they use to correct vision.
Eye health issues
- Over 13 million people in Australia have reported having one or more chronic eye conditions. These include cataracts, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, which can all cause vision loss.
- There are more than 411,000 cases of long-term eye conditions among Australian children, most of which are longsightedness and shortsightedness.
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities suffer from vision loss and blindness at three times the rate of other Australians. Rates of trachoma, a contagious eye infection, are also high in some areas.
- Eye health and vision problems are the most common long-term health conditions among First Nations people.
Eye care habits
- Nationally, per capita initial comprehensive eye examinations fell by 18.1% for people aged under 65. It’s recommended that Australians get an eye exam every two years to detect eye conditions and track vision changes, even if a patient is asymptomatic. Routine check-ups can prevent vision loss when symptoms are spotted early.
- Aside from optician clinics, eyewear retailers are increasing access to eye tests. Online retailer OPSM enables consumers to book an appointment at a nearby location directly on the website. Eligible Medicare card holders are also bulk billed. Optometry Australia is also campaigning for the Federal Government to reinstate Medicare-subsidised initial comprehensive eye examinations every two years for Australians under 65.
- Around 57% of Australians are aware of benefits of regular eye examinations; however, 35% don’t take eye tests regularly and 12% have never seen an optometrist in their life.
Eyewear use
- Australia’s eyewear market volume is expected to reach 80.6 million pieces by 2029. The volume per person is projected to have reached 1.8 in 2024.
- 49.5% of the Australian population wears glasses or contact lenses. About one in six children from ages 10 to 14 wear eyewear to correct vision problems.
- Between November 2023 and February 2024, 63.7% of those exposed to the sun during peak hours wore sunglasses. Sunglasses are an important form of sun protection, as UV rays can contribute to eye conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts.
- Australia’s eyewear market focuses primarily on sustainable and eco-friendly products.
Conclusion
With eye conditions and vision loss cases rising due to age, well-being, and other lifestyle factors, Australians must practice eye care habits to protect their vision. This includes regular eye exams or wearing corrective and protective eyewear like glasses and sunglasses when needed. Lifestyle changes such as a healthier diet, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep can also improve eye health outcomes. The statistics show that Australians are still struggling with eye care and eye health practices, but the data above can guide people to watch their vision, even when asymptomatic.
Joseph D'Souza founded ElectroIQ in 2010 as a personal project to share his insights and experiences with tech gadgets. Over time, it has grown into a well-regarded tech blog, known for its in-depth smartphone reviews and app-related statistics. Joseph is dedicated to providing detailed, well-researched content, including statistics, facts, charts, and graphs, all verified by experts. His goal is to make technological innovations and scientific discoveries easy to understand for everyone. ElectroIQ is now a top source for tech news, appreciated by both tech enthusiasts and beginners.
