Providing quality continuing education to members is a major focus of the OA Council. The OA offers a number of continuing education activities and Upskilling courses which are accredited by the Australian Orthoptic Board (AOB) Continuing Pofessional Education (CPE) Program.

There is opportunity for all orthoptists, in metropolitan and rural areas, to maintain a high standard of proficiency in their profession.

Annual Scientific Conference

The conference provides high quality research and continuing education and is held in conjunction with the Royal Australian & New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO) conference.  Reciprocal registration is in place with the RANZCO conference and key RANZCO session/s may form part of the OA program. Access is also granted to the RANZCO trade exhibition.

The conference (usually held in November) commences on Sunday evening with a Welcome Reception, followed by the scientific program on Monday, Tuesday and concluding early Wednesday afternoon. The Conference Dinner is on Tuesday evening. 

The hosting OA State branch often runs a workshop on the Sunday prior to the conference commencing. 

The conference is also an excellent opportunity to maintain contact with colleagues from around Australia and overseas.

Upskill Course series

UPSKILL is a course level CPE conducted over a weekend which provides an opportunity to learn new skills and review existing skills. Comprising two separate full day modules, members are welcome to attend either one or both days of the course.  Registration numbers are limited to allow participants plenty of “hands on” and individual tuition.

This course is offered exclusively to OA members and is accredited by Australian Orthoptic Board CPE Program with each day attracting 5 points (may vary).  Participants will receive certification on completion of each of the modules.

We look forward to Orthoptists from around Australia participating in this professional development opportunity.

State Workshops & Scientific meetings 

State branches offer scientific meetings and workshop and invite all members to attend.