Australia commits to closing the gap in Indigenous eye health by 2035 at first Global Summit

The Fred Hollows Foundation has welcomed the Albanese Government’s commitments at the first Global Summit for Eye Health taking place at CHOGM in Antigua and Barbuda today (Tuesday 3 November 2026 AEDT), where the Government has pledged to close the eye health gap between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians by 2035. 

The government has also committed to improving access to blindness and vision services and assistive technologies such as magnifiers, white canes and training to live independently at home and move safely around the community. 

The Foundation’s CEO Ross Piper said the commitments would make a tangible difference to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and older Australians. 

Photo credit: Michael Amendolia

“Vision impairment is three times higher amongst Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples than non-Indigenous Australians. Closing the gap by 2035 is achievable, but it will require sustained investment and genuine partnership. 

“We are calling on the Government to bring together Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peak bodies and allied organisations including the First Nations Eye Health Alliance to achieve this goal. 

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, self-determination and Allyship must underpin this work. These principles have been central to progress towards eliminating trachoma in Australia and must guide the Government as it moves on its commitment. 

“The Government’s commitment acknowledges how vital good vision is to healthy ageing and will help older Australians to remain independent, connected to their communities and living with dignity. We need existing aged care pathways, such as Support at Home, to include referrals and recognition of specialist vision services. 

“Millions of Australians will stand to benefit from these combined commitments. We know that Professor Fred Hollows would be simultaneously welcoming them but reminding us to get on with the job.” 

The Australian Government’s commitment was one of 57 commitments by governments from around the world. The Fred Hollows Foundation’s commitment includes performing 1 million cataract surgeries, dispensing 1 million pairs of glasses, reaching 61 million people with trachoma antibiotics and training more than 440,000 eye health workers.