Universal pre-school vision screening in SA

Emailing local representatives is one of the most powerful ways to drive change. MPs listen when their constituents speak up — especially when many voices call for the same action. By sending an email, you show that universal pre-school vision screening matters to families, professionals, and communities. Each message helps build political will and brings South Australia closer to making this vital program a reality.

Emailing local representatives is one of the most powerful ways to drive change. MPs listen when their constituents speak up — especially when many voices call for the same action. By sending an email, you show that universal pre-school vision screening matters to families, professionals, and communities. Each message helps build political will and brings South Australia closer to making this vital program a reality.

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Subject:

I’m writing to express my strong support for the proposal, launched by Cassandra Haines (optometrist) and Dr Joanna Black (ophthalmologist) to introduce Universal Pre-School Vision Screening in South Australia. This is a simple, cost-effective initiative that could make a lifelong difference for thousands of children across our state.

Every child deserves the best possible start in life, and good vision is fundamental to learning, social development, and confidence. Yet in South Australia, many children begin school with undiagnosed vision problems that can affect their ability to read, learn and participate. Research from Flinders University found that 17% of Year 3 children failed a vision screening due to previously undiagnosed eye conditions, such as refractive error and amblyopia – conditions that are treatable if detected early.
Other states, including New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia, already offer near-universal pre-school vision screening. South Australia risks falling behind, and our children deserve better.
A universal, school-based vision screening program for all 4-year-olds would:
• Detect vision problems early, before they affect a child’s learning and wellbeing.
• Reduce avoidable long-term vision impairment.
• Ensure children from all backgrounds, including regional, rural, and Aboriginal communities, have equal access to screening.
• Build on existing state health and education infrastructure, using proven pathways through CaFHS, SA Health and local optometry and ophthalmology services.

The program is supported by Optometry Australia, the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, Orthoptics Australia, Vision 2020 Australia, and the Lions Eye Health Program, along with leading eye health professionals from across South Australia.

For an estimated $1.1 million per year, we could deliver vision screening for every pre-schooler in the state — an investment that pays for itself many times over through improved learning outcomes, employability and wellbeing.

I urge you and the next South Australian Government to commit to implementing universal pre-school vision screening ahead of the 2026 state election. This is an achievable, evidence-based initiative that would change children’s futures for the better and I would welcome the opportunity to meet and discuss this further.

Thank you for your time and for your commitment to improving children’s health and education outcomes.

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