Optometrist - ASCO 2384-11

Tasks & Duties

Performs eye examinations and vision tests to determine the presence of visual, ocular and other abnormalities, and prescribes lenses, other optical aids or therapy.

  • examines patients' eyes and sets visual tests to determine the nature and extent of vision problems and abnormalities
  • prescribes and may dispense lenses, contact lenses and low vision aids and check suitability and comfort
  • detects, diagnoses and manages eye disease and refers patients to, and receives referrals from other health providers
  • provides advice on visual issues such as contact lens care, vision-care of the elderly, optics, visual ergonomics, occupational and industrial eye safety and research
  • may dispense lenses, contact lenses and low vision aids
  • may advise patients on eye exercises to correct defective eye muscles and on lighting and visual habits

Entry Skill Level

The entry requirement for this occupation is a bachelor degree or higher qualification. Registration or licensing is required.

This can be relevant when applying for temporary business sponsorship, and in some cases in applying for skills assessment.

Skilled Occupations List

This occupation is on the Skilled Occupations List. You could consider applying for Skilled Migration to Australia.

If you nominated the occupation of Optometrist, you would score 60 points for skill in the skilled migration points test.

Migration Occupations in Demand List

This occupation is on the Migration Occupations in Demand List. If you applied for Skilled Migration to Australia, you would score an additional 15 points for nominating this occupation, or an extra 20 points in the skilled migration points test if you have a job offer with a business which has had at least 10 full-time employees for the last 2 years.

Employer Nomination Scheme

An Australian business can sponsor you for a permanent visa Employer Nomination). The occupation of Optometrist is on the gazetted list of occupations approved for ENS visas.

Temporary Business Sponsorship

An Australian or overseas business can sponsor you for a temporary visa lasting for up to 4 years (subclass 457 visa - see Temporary Business Sponsorship). The occupation of Optometrist is on the gazetted list of occupations approved for temporary business sponsorship.