Vision Australia - Rural and Remote Services

Personalised services and support by Vision Australia

Vision Australia offers ongoing personalised support via phone, email and telehealth appointments. In-person support is also offered when it can with the regional office footprint. Services include:

• Guidance on managing vision loss, including glaucoma, throughout life, including treatment opportunities, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional wellbeing.
• Support following assessments from Know Your Vision, Vision Australia's entry-level clinic that helps patients and families break down information into clear, manageable next steps. This can also be done via a satellite office.
• Coordination of allied health services, including occupational therapy, orientation and mobility training, and emotional support programs.
• Hands-on training in assistive technology and daily living aids, as well as using tech to video conference, ensuring confidence in using devices for reading, cooking, home safety, and more.
• Delivering Techspo (expos) to their satellite sites, where they demonstrate Vision Store products.
• Partner/collaborate with local teams on the ground who are supporting services to clients.
• Consultation and upskilling of local teams and community members to best support people who are blind or have low vision.
• Meet our clients and stakeholders in person whenever they can to continue delivering services, in-person and via telehealth.

Live and recorded webinars

Vision Australia provides webinars and virtual sessions featuring their own experts and eye health professionals:

• Live sessions allow participants to ask questions in real time, with recordings available via YouTube and on-demand.
• Webinars cover important topics including vision management, lifestyle strategies, inspiring stories, knowing your rights, assistive technology, and emotional wellbeing.
• These resources ensure rural and remote clients can access expert guidance regardless of location.

Digital and downloadable resources

Vision Australia offers accessible digital resources to support people living with vision loss across multiple fields:

• Downloadable guides, factsheets, and audio resources on vision loss management, low vision strategies, and assistive technology.
• Resources are available on demand in large print, braille, and audio formats, making information accessible to all clients.
• Award winning podcasts available through all major podcasting platforms from Vision Australia Radio.
• Audio books, apps and information delivery via Vision Australia Library.

National telehealth helpline

Clients can call Vision Australia’s support desk Monday to Friday (9 am to 5 pm AEST) on 1300 847 466 for:

• Questions about living with vision loss, daily living adaptations, and assistive technology.
• Emotional support and connection to peer programs.
• An overview of Vision Australia's available services in their location.
• Guidance on accessing funding programs such as NDIS, CHSP or Home Care Packages.

No referral is required, and the phone service is accessible nationwide, including in rural areas.

Email and online support

Clients can submit specific questions via email to info@visionaustralia.org, which Vision Australia's friendly team will direct to the right people for an answer. This supports the continuity of care, especially for those with limited access to in-person services.

All clients receive Vision Australia's fortnightly client newsletter, For Your Information, which keeps them informed on the latest news in the blind and low vison community.

Risk assessment tools and referral pathways

Vision Australia provides tools to assess glaucoma risk and facilitate early intervention:

• These pathways link directly to Vision Australia services, including Know Your Vision, allied health support, and assistive technology training.
• Early detection supports long-term vision health and independence, including for rural and remote communities.

Community forums and peer support

Vision Australia encourages connection, social interaction, and shared learning with all our clients:

• Peer Support Program: one-on-one support from people with lived experience of vision loss.
• Quality Living Groups: eight-week programs that share strategies, build confidence, and reduce isolation.
• Telelink and Check-In and Chat: group and individual phone sessions to maintain social connection.
• Accessible community media: Vision Australia Library (audio, braille, large print) and Vision Australia Radio provide news, current affairs, and entertainment.
• Social media platforms: Through Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn we share the latest in Vision Australia and disability sector news.

These platforms allow patients to connect, share experiences, and stay engaged, which is particularly useful in rural and remote areas.

For more information about Vision Australia and their services for rural and remote communities, visit the Vision Australia website.