Same old fights, new language…

Minum Barreng co-deputy Unit head Shaun Tatipata has recently published an important opinion piece through Croakey Health Media commenting on sector activity regarding the Optometry Board of Australia (OBA) public consultation on oral prescribing for optometrists.

The OBA invited stakeholders in October 2025 to have their say on a 'Review of the Registration standard: Endorsement for scheduled medicines and Guidelines for use of scheduled medicines' for optometrists registered in Australia. The OBA consultation closes on 24 December and information can be found at

https://www.optometryboard.gov.au/News/Current-Consultations.aspx

Shaun wears many hats in the sector including that of Chair of the First Nations Eye Health Alliance and founding director of the Deadly Vision Centre. He also holds appointment in the University of Western Australia and is variously involved in many sector committees and groups. Not surprisingly his opinion and involvement is regularly sought by many professional groups and agencies.

Shaun’s opinion piece calls out the imperative for community consultation in consideration of improved and better services and care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people - and indeed challenges the eye care professions to do their business differently. We think this is must read.