Strategic Framework 2005 - 2008

Working together to prevent avoidable blindness and improve vision care

Introduction

Established in October 2000, Vision 2020 Australia is part of VISION 2020: The Right to Sight, a worldwide initiative of the World Health Organisation and the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness. Its aim is to eliminate avoidable blindness and vision loss by the year 2020.

Vision 2020 Australia has developed an ambitious strategic direction which is aimed at building strong foundations for a cohesive and collaborative public health approach within the eye health and vision care sector in Australia, and supporting the same in international communities.

The goals and objectives of this framework can only be met with the commitment and active participation of Vision 2020 Australia member organisations. Members share the vision and are dedicated to ensuring leadership in the prevention of avoidable blindness and vision loss by the year 2020.

The Role of Vision 2020 Australia

Vision 2020 Australia brings together Australian organisations involved in local and global eye care service delivery, health promotion, education and development, low vision support, vision health rehabilitation, eye research, professional assistance and community support.

Vision 2020 Australia initiates and facilitates opportunities for member collaboration, undertakes awareness raising activities and leads advocacy efforts aimed at the prevention of avoidable blindness and improved vision care.

In 2006, Vision 2020 Australia received funding under the Australian Government, Department of Health and Ageing, Community Sector Support Scheme. This provided formal recognition of Vision 2020 Australia's role as the peak organisation working to eliminate avoidable blindness and vision loss; maximise community participation for all those with vision needs; and help those with permanent vision loss.

Strategic Approach

Vision 2020 Australia takes the following strategic approach when undertaking day to day business and in successfully implementing the strategic framework:

• Identify and initiate opportunities for collaboration among members
• Advocate and persuade government and the wider community for recognition and support
• Increase public awareness and education in the Australian community for the prevention of avoidable blindness and vision loss
• Collaborate with Vision 2020: The Right to Sight's worldwide initiative to eliminate avoidable blindness by the year 2020
• Facilitate active and productive networks, committees and working groups
• Ensure organisational capabilities to deliver on strategic priorities

Strategic Framework Goals and Objectives

The strategic goals and objectives for 2005-08 will be achieved with the cooperation and contribution of the eye health and vision care sector in Australia. They are:

Goal 1

To ensure eye health and vision care are recognised as health priorities nationally and are adequately funded.

Objectives

• National Framework for Action to Promote Eye Health and Prevent Avoidable Blindness and Vision Loss (National Framework) is reflected in current policy
• Adequate resourcing for National Framework Key Action Areas is in place
• Vision 2020 Australia is recognised as the national representative body for organisations working together to eliminate avoidable blindness and reduce the impact of vision loss

Goal 2

To reduce avoidable vision loss through increased prevention and early intervention for all Australians.

Objectives

• Achieve greater awareness, increased knowledge and behavioural change through The Vision Initiative
• To facilitate an effective national platform for advocacy and collaboration

Goal 3

To reduce the impact of vision loss through increased utilisation of vision services by all Australians.

Objectives

• Advocate for improved access to eye health and vision care services
• Advocate for the development of a National Low Vision and Rehabilitation Framework

Goal 4

To increase Australia's contribution to achieving global Vision 2020 goals.

Objective

• Ensure Australia's contribution of knowledge, expertise, resources and services improves global programs and initiatives

Goal 5

To increase evidence-based research into the causes, impact, consequences and effective treatment and management of vision loss.

Objective

• Support research funding and profile initiatives of the stakeholder group

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