Orthoptist
ANZSCO Code: 251412 / Group A
Orthoptists find and treat problems with how the eyes move and work together, as well as issues with vision.
Occupation Descriptions
Orthoptists identify and treat problems with eye movements and related vision issues.
Occupations not considered suitable under this ANZSCO code:
- Optometrist
- Ophthalmologist
- These occupations are classified elsewhere in ANZSCO.
Orthoptist is a VETASSESS Group A occupation
This job requires a qualification that is equivalent to an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Bachelor’s degree or higher, in a field closely related to the specific occupation.
Applicants must also have at least one year of relevant work experience, at the appropriate skill level, completed within the last five years.
A positive evaluation of both qualifications and employment is necessary for a successful Skills Assessment Outcome.
Additional qualifications in a highly relevant field of study include those comparable to the following levels:
- AQF Diploma
- AQF Advanced Diploma
- AQF Associate Degree or
- AQF Graduate Diploma
Highly relevant paid employment duration (20 hours or more per week):
To apply for a Skills Assessment, you need to have completed at least one year of paid employment, working 20 hours or more per week, after obtaining the relevant qualification. This employment must be closely related to the nominated occupation and at the appropriate skill level. Additionally, this work experience should have been gained within the last five years prior to your application. Meeting these criteria is essential for a positive Skills Assessment outcome, demonstrating that your recent professional experience aligns with the standards and requirements of the occupation.
Qualification and Employment Criteria
Qualification
To qualify for this occupation, you need an AQF Bachelor degree or higher specifically in Orthoptics. Qualifications in Optometry and Ophthalmology are not considered highly relevant to the role of an Orthoptist.
This ensures that your educational background is directly aligned with the specialized skills and knowledge required for Orthoptics. Meeting this requirement is essential for being considered for the position and for successfully passing the Skills Assessment.
This includes qualifications assessed at AQF Bachelor, Master and Doctoral level.
Employment
Highly relevant tasks include:
- Assessing ocular health and visual function by measuring visual acuity and refractive error, testing visual pathways, visual fields, eye movements, freedom of vision, and intraocular pressure, and performing other tests using specialized equipment.
- Diagnosing eye movement disorders and binocular function defects.
- Prescribing exercises to improve eye movement and focusing.
- Managing treatment programs for eye movement disorders, and instructing and counseling patients on corrective techniques and eye exercises.
- Conducting preventative screening programs.
- Running rehabilitation programs for individuals with visual impairments.
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Employment information
Orthoptists are university-trained allied healthcare practitioners who specialize in diagnosing and treating eye movement disorders and performing diagnostic procedures related to eye and visual system disorders. They are skilled in assessing and managing a variety of ocular and vision disorders. Orthoptists work in a range of settings, including hospitals, private practices, low vision and rehabilitation centers, community health areas, clinical research centers, universities, and the ophthalmic sales industry. It is important to note that ophthalmologists, who are classified under a different ANZSCO code (253914), cannot be considered for this occupation. Orthoptists play a critical role in eye care, focusing on non-surgical treatments and management of visual health.
How to apply
If you’re considering migrating to Australia, you’ll likely need a skills assessment from VETASSESS. Follow these steps:
1. Find
Identify the VETASSESS occupation that best matches your skills and experience.
2. Match
Ensure your skills and experience align with the chosen occupation.
3. Prepare
Gather all necessary information and documents for your application.
4. Apply
Complete the online application when you're ready. If you need assistance, support is available.