Annual Awards – Nominations Open

Since 1954, the Australian College of Optometry has recognised outstanding achievements by those in the Optometry profession. It has presented awards to recognise the service of both members and non-members who are held in high esteem by colleagues and peers and who have contributed to the ACO and/or the optometry profession.

The ACO invites its Members to make recommendations for recipients of the ACO Honorary Life Membership Award and the ACO Member Award for Outstanding Service.

ACO Honorary Life Membership Award criteria

The Honorary Life Membership is awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution to the Australian College of Optometry and/or the profession. Both Members and non-members are eligible for this award.

Applicants are required to meet 2 or more of the following criteria:

• Have provided distinguished and meritorious service, such as to the Australian College of Optometry and/or to the profession;
• Are held in high esteem for their work and contributions to the Australian College of Optometry and/or the profession;
• Have been influential in the community, having earned the respect and recognition of their colleagues;
• Have served the Council in a leadership position for a lengthy period;
• Have been instrumental in bringing about positive change in terms of the Australian College of Optometry’s achievements;
• Non members who have made significant contribution to vision, health and/or research and earned the recognition of the members of the Australian College of Optometry;

ACO Member Award for Outstanding Service criteria

The Australian College of Optometry Member Award for Outstanding Services is awarded to individual Members who have made an exceptional contribution to the ACO. 

Applicants are required to meet 2 or more of the following criteria:

• Contributed actively to the governance of the Australian College of Optometry, either on a Committee and/or Council;
• Consistently and generously provided support, time and advice beyond the expectations of a Committee/Council;
• Always upheld and promoted the principles and practices of the Australian College of Optometry in a positive and beneficial light;
• Highly regarded by peers;
• Contributed for a lengthy period (10 years or more), generally continuous (except where the member’s service has been interrupted by working overseas for a set period).

How do I nominate someone?

To nominate someone for one of these awards Members will need to complete an online Nomination Form.  Please note only ACO Members can make a nomination for these awards.

Nominations for the 2022 ACO Awards are now closed. 

All enquiries regarding the awards or if you require a paper based nomination form, please contact (03) 9349 7578 or email  membership@aco.org.au