Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Training Reflection By Virgilia Readett (ODA Member) I was fortunate enough to attend ODA’s Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) hosted course at Macquarie University, which was facilitated by Penny Dillon on 2nd – 3rd October. In the lead up, I braced myself for what I though would be a good, but heavy couple of days. These expectations were shattered. Rather than good, it was empowering, rather than heavy it was confronting to say the least. Across

Ready to transition from employee to owner? Zoom Optics offers experienced optical dispensers a pathway to business ownership with a...

In April 2025, Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA) conducted an anonymous national wage survey to gather data on the current wages,...

Our mission is clear and simple - to bring accessible eyecare to those who need it most.   This year’s ODA Fiji Outreach was an...

Calling all optical dispensers, optical assistants, practice managers and support staff… Your industry needs your help! Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA) is conducting an anonymous survey to gather data on the current wages, employment conditions, and career experiences of optical dispensers and those in affiliated roles across Australia. By participating in this national wage survey, you will provide ODA with crucial data on current employment conditions. This information i

The 2025 ODA National Excellence Awards were presented on the 7th March at The InterContinental Sydney as part of the annual ODA Gala...

What is Spexcycle?   Spexcycle is Australia’s first closed-loop eyewear recycling initiative, founded by Chris Savage, an experienced optical dispenser and designer with a vision for change. Through our collection and recycling process, we transform eyewear waste into new, sustainable frames, giving discarded materials a second life. By reducing landfill and conserving natural resources, Spexcycle offers optical practices and their customers an easy, impactful way to make a

ODA is pleased to be offering a brand new training program for the industry: "Optical Assistant / Dispensing Induction Training: Introduction to Optics"   The primary goal of this training program is to prepare candidates for their new role within the optical industry and is suited to new employees or existing team members that have not yet undertaken the Certificate IV in Optical Dispensing qualification. This training program offers candidates the necessary technical and cu

In response to industry staff shortages, ODA has launched an innovative pre-employment program in direct collaboration with The Sarina Russo Group. The training program offers candidates the necessary technical and customer service skills needed to work as an optical assistant or begin a career in optical dispensing. The program ensures they are capable of effectively contributing to a practice environment from day one by providing an introduction to dispensing techniques, op