As Australia's largest public health optometry provider, ACO Eye Health is committed to delivering access to high-quality, accessible eye care to all communities. We aim to improve equity through inclusive, patient-centred care, delivered through our network of Melbourne clinics, diverse outreach programs and Rural Victorian Eyecare Service (VES) partnerships. Guided by clinical excellence and innovation, we ensure evidence-based, best-practice care that enhances vision and well-being for all.
ACO Eye Health is part of the Australian College of Optometry (ACO), a not-for-profit global leader in optometry. In addition to the provision of eye care services, ACO also conducts clinical and public health research and advances the profession through education. By integrating care, research, and learning, we improve eye health outcomes locally, nationally, and internationally.
Job Description
Key Information
Monday- Friday or Tuesday- Saturday roster.
Nine-day fortnights with a rostered day off.
Working hours from 8.30 am to 5.45 pm.
No Sundays, late nights or Public Holidays.
Locations: Regional and Rural Services throughout Victoria, ACO Carlton and metropolitan clinics.
Make a meaningful impact by delivering high-quality, patient-centred eye care. This role offers a unique opportunity for optometrists to combine high-quality clinical care with meaningful community engagement. Staff work across a range of service settings, including ACO clinics, community-based programs, and outreach initiatives that improve access to eye care for underserved populations. As a Staff Optometrist, you will provide comprehensive optometric services across a range of clinical settings including in partnership with organisations such as the Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS). Staff deliver mobile eyecare programs to various districts across regional Victoria, as well as in aged care homes, Supported Residential Services (SRS), and other community hubs.
Our outreach team provide services to some of Victoria's most underserved and vulnerable communities. This role will enable you to make a real difference to the lives of patients, helping to achieve the best possible outcomes.
This role includes responsibilities across service delivery and clinical teaching.
Key Responsibilities
Provide clinical services in rural outreach settings, as a primary focus of this role.
Provide clinical services of a high quality and apply a high standard of clinical skill and knowledge, whilst working to established clinic protocols.
Provide high-quality optometric care in both general outreach and Aboriginal services, across metropolitan Melbourne and regional Victoria.
Adapt to diverse clinical environments and patient needs with professionalism and cultural sensitivity.
Provide clinical services in a personal and caring way that is timely and responsive to patient needs and involves patients in decision making.
Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, including history, results, and treatment plans.
Provide timely referrals and replies to referring practitioners.
Maintain specialised clinical skill and knowledge across a range of services (this may include participation with teaching, education, and research).
Partake in the implementation of ACO clinical governance and clinical excellence strategies.
Desired Skills and Experience
About You
You are a qualified optometrist with at least 5 years’ post qualification experience and a commitment to delivering compassionate, high-quality clinical eyecare services. You value collaboration, continuous learning, and have a strong desire to contribute to clinical education and health promotion.
You are proactive about developing your clinical expertise and are comfortable working across a range of service environments, including Outreach. Our optometrists work closely with a broad range of healthcare professionals, including ophthalmologists, and primary care physicians, to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients
Desired Skills
Minimum of five years’ experience working in clinical optometry
Evidence of achievement of and commitment to high standards of clinical skill and knowledge
Evidence of a strong service focus, including capacity to respond and show initiative in the provision of quality services.
Good interpersonal skills and an indication of working well with other people.
Self-motivated individual who demonstrates flexibility and a positive can-do attitude
Understanding and respecting the feelings, needs and cultural differences of others (i.e. practice in a culturally safe manner)
An understanding of OHS principles and risk reduction.
Essential Criteria
A degree or Optometry Council of Australia and New Zealand certification that allows registration to practice optometry
Prescribe therapeutic medicines in Australia certification.
Registered by AHPRA in a capacity that allows the provision of clinical optometry services.
Motivated to serve the community and, in particular, for people experiencing disadvantage.
Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certification to the requirements of the Optometry Board of Australia.
Full, valid driving licence with the willingness to drive ACO fleet cars as required.
Applications close 9 August 2026 at 5pm. To apply please submit your resume and a cover letter (no more than 2 pages) addressing your suitability for the position. Please ensure you include all required documents as applications can only be reviewed once all requested information is received.For more information, including a position description, please contact careers@aco.org.au. Please note applications will not be accepted via email.
The ACO will be reviewing applications as received and reserve the right to close the advert early should a suitable candidate be appointed. We encourage prospective candidates to apply as soon as possible.
