A survey conducted by Optical Dispensers Australia (ODA) revealed the majority of respondents (74.1%) do not think their renumeration reflects the specialised nature of their work.

In addition to wages, the anonymous survey collated data on the employment conditions and career experiences of optical dispensers and those in affiliated roles across Australia (n=451).

Results indicate some clear patterns around job satisfaction, said April Petrusma, ODA CEO, with more than half of the respondents (53.7%) expressing they didn’t feel there was a career path or development opportunities for them at their current place of work. On a more positive note, nearly 80% said they believed optical dispensing can offer a lifelong career.

The takeaway message from this survey is clear, Petrusma said. “Optical dispensing is a skilled profession that requires ongoing learning, precision and problem solving, yet it’s often not recognised or rewarded accordingly in pay structures. This disconnect needs to be addressed if practices want to attract and retain skilled dispensers who contribute so much to their success.

“While hourly rates between AU$25-35 may seem reasonable at a glance, they often fall short when you consider the level of expertise and accountability expected of dispensers,” she said.

Almost half of respondents (44.3%) said they work in a corporate practice, while 31.9% said they worked for an independent practice with one location and 19.3% said they work in an independent practice with multiple locations. The survey was carried out in April this year.