Eye diseases and vision problems are the most common long-term health conditions reported by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (First Nations) people. This is the ninth annual report to update the Eye health measures for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The measures cover the prevalence of eye health conditions, diagnosis and treatment services, the eye health workforce and outreach services. 

The report provides an evidence base for monitoring changes in eye health amongst First Nations people over time, their access and use of eye health services, and for identifying gaps in service delivery. This report includes the latest available data against each measure where possible.

The report is provided with interactive data.

Key findings

• The prevalence of active trachoma in children aged 5 to 9 in at-risk communities fell from 15% in 2009 to 1.5% in 2024.
• First Nations cataract surgery rate increased from 6,530 in 2016–17 to 8,849 per million in 2023–24.
• First Nations people who had a diabetes test and eye examination rose, 36% (2016–2017) to 43% (2023–2024).
• Waiting times for elective cataract surgery appear to have worsened as waiting times have increased.
• The three leading causes of vision impairment and blindness (vision loss) for First Nations people aged 50 and over were uncorrected refractive error, cataract and diabetic retinopathy.