Networks & Committees

Vision 2020 Australia works with member organisations to develop policies, strategies and submissions to improve eye health and vision care for all Australians. Members contribute to Vision 2020 Australia's advocacy work and organisational planning during Member Forums and through networks, committees and working groups.

Member Forums

Member Forums are held annually in different cities around Australia, with representatives from all member organisations invited to attend. At these events, members set priorities for the months ahead and take part in discussions to direct Vision 2020 Australia's advocacy agenda. Longer-term strategic planning and organisational issues are also considered during forums.

Networks

Vision 2020 Australia convenes an Advocacy Network and a Marketing and Public Relations Network. Both networks encourage collaboration, information-sharing and informal communication between members. Network discussions have led to a number of cooperative activities.

The Advocacy Network was established in July 2006, and works to develop key advocacy messages and agree on priorities for government relations.

The Marketing and Public Relations Network contributes to a central calendar of events and activities and identifies opportunities for collaboration.

Committees

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Committee and the Global Committee provide specific forums for specialised policy areas. Meetings are held quarterly and bring together member organisations that work either internationally or with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to share knowledge and expertise.

The Vision Initiative (TVI) Steering Committee provides expert advice and support to the development, implementation and evaluation of strategies required to achieve The Vision Initiative's aims and objectives in Victoria.

Working Groups

Working Groups are formed to respond to issues emerging from forums, networks and committees.

World Sight Day Working Group
Each year, the Marketing and Public Relations Network recommends a World Sight Day theme for consideration by the Board of Vision 2020 Australia. A working group of members, no larger than 10 people, is assembled to tailor plans to suit the priorities of member organisations.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Eye Health and Vision Care Service Mapping Working Group
Formed following the Member Forum in July 2006, this group oversees work to map and identify service delivery gaps in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Low Vision and Rehabilitation National Working Group
The group coordinates a strategic approach to government policy and planning for low vision and rehabilitation services. The working group assisted in the development of a submission to the Community and Disability Services Ministers' Conference (CDSMC) in 2006.

The Victorian Low Vision Working Group
This group formed in 2005 as a result of the commitment to low vision services and rehabilitation, as reflected in The Vision Initiative's objectives. It provides a platform for improved collaboration and communication within the Victorian low vision sector.

Since commencing, the working group has identified several projects which are being addressed through sub working groups, allowing a multi-organisational approach. Current projects include improving referral rates to low vision services; improving low vision services within the Victorian Aboriginal Community; and creating a list of all Victorian optometrists with an interest in providing low vision services.

Consumer Input and Feedback

With the assistance of the Corporate and Governance Standing Committee, Vision 2020 Australia has developed a process for accessing consumer participation and input into relevant vision initiatives, primarily through member organisations providing community support.