Orthoptics is an allied health profession specialised in diagnosis and management of disorders of eye movements and associated vision problems; performance of investigative procedures appropriate to disorders of the eye and visual system; and rehabilitation of patients with vision loss.

In performing these functions orthoptists are an integral part of the eye health team providing investigative testing of diseases such as glaucoma, assessment and management of eye movement disorders (for example, following a head injury) and rehabilitation of persons with sight loss due to eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration. Orthoptic treatment of certain conditions can relieve visual symptoms and enhance visual performance.

Orthoptists work in many areas including neonatal care, paediatrics, rehabilitation, geriatrics, neurological impairment, community services and ophthalmic technology.