Research
The ACO is dedicated to improving eye health outcomes of communities through research conducted by the National Vision Research Institute (NVRI).
Research Projects
Research Priorities
Refractive Epidemiology
Following Tim Fricke’s work with the Brien Holden Vision Institute team estimating that 50% of people would have myopia by 2050, new work continues to elaborate on global patterns in refractive error and ocular accommodation.
Additional work with the Australian Eye and Ear Health Survey is also examining refractive error coverage rates since the previous national survey 8 years ago.
Research Priorities
Health Economics of Eye Care
Health economics can quantify the burden eye/vision conditions place on a community at a point in time, or alternatively, cost of a condition to an individual over a period of time. We have been refining ways of estimating both burden and cost to help individuals and communities to decide whether a prevention or a treatment is valuable. One example is our work on lifetime cost of myopia, which will help families decide which myopia control option/s to invest in and when.
Research Priorities
Improving Vision in Children and Older People
ACO’s clinical services, operating as ACO Eye Health, is long established as a centre of optometric excellence with a focus on accessibility for complex communities and vulnerable individuals. As a data source, ACO Eye Health could help find patterns in vision loss and eye conditions that could guide potential solutions. From 2025, three related projects will aim to generate usable clinical data to assist evolution into a sustainable, patient-centred, united ACO that is better able to help communities it serves both directly and indirectly.
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Vision Charts
The popular Bailey-Lovie LogMAR visual acuity chart was developed at the NVRI in 1976 and has had a lasting impression on the optometry profession.
LogMAR charts are available for purchase.
Find Out More
NVRI Membership
NVRI members help us improve health outcomes in the community through research into vision and its disorders. Their contributions allow the NVRI to continue its valuable work in preserving sight and preventing blindness. To find out more, email us at membership@aco.org.au.
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NVRI History
Early days
The NVRI was established in 1972, with early research focussed on the visual performance and optometric management of patients with severe visual handicap due to low vision caused by age-related macular degeneration. Dr Ian Bailey and graduate student Jan Lovie developed the world-famous Bailey-Lovie LogMAR chart and other novel near vision reading test charts, thus helping the NVRI to achieve lasting international recognition.
NVRI History
Unique research history
Over five decades, the NVRI has expanded to conduct basic, applied, and clinical vision research. Throughout this journey, the institute has reinforced its unique role within the Australian vision science landscape and actively collaborated with several academic and corporate partners to advance eye health.
NVRI History
Lasting partnerships
The NVRI has always been closely linked with the University of Melbourne. A Memorandum of Understanding has been in place since 2015 that formalizes the strong relationship between the two organisations.
NVRI History
Renewed focus on public health
2023 marked a significant period of transition for the NVRI. Aligned with the launch of the 2023-2026 ACO Strategic Plan, the institute underwent a thorough review, prompting a realignment of its priorities. Consequently, the NVRI has refocused its efforts on clinical and public health research.
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