Subsidies of 70 per cent are available on basic scheduled items such as basic lenses and basic frames. Low vision aids prostheses and intraocular implants are subsidised up to $379.95 per item. Eligible people include:

• pre-school age children and adults post-year 12 who are permanent Tasmanian residents (for at least three continuous months immediately  prior to application)

and who:

• have an Australian Government or DVA Pensioner Concession Card (excluding holders of a DVA Health Card – All Conditions (“Gold Card”) and in some cases DVA Health Card for Specific Conditions (White Card) and
• meet an assessment of current income and cash assets.

Other low-income earners may be eligible for the subsidy under hardship provisions.

The minimum Tasmanian residential requirement does not apply to refugees.

To receive the subsidy, an application form must be completed and forwarded with the prescription to the Statewide Spectacles Scheme.

The subsidy does not cover wards of state or school age children for whom assistance is available through Children and Family Services and the Department of Education.

Note: People who can claim from private health insurance, Workers’ Compensation or any other source are not eligible to apply.

For more information:

Department of Health 
Phone: 1800 232 148
Web: www.health.tas.gov.au