The optometry courses are based on sciences, including biology, physics and chemistry. Therefore, a thorough background in these subjects is essential for students entering the course. The course also covers subjects such as anatomy, physiology of vision, pharmacology and histology, and the final years are devoted to clinical instruction in the management of vision problems. Most of the final year is spent working under supervision in contact with patients. From time to time the State Divisions of the AOA offer scholarships for students who are considering optometry as a career.
Most Australian optometrists are self-employed or work for other optometrists in private practice.
Optometric practices are like those of doctors or dentists and are usually located in office-type premises in or near shopping areas. Sometimes optometrists work outside their practices, for example visiting homes of bedridden or house-bound patients, acting as a consultant to firms or factories at their premises, or working at health care institutions such as hospitals, community health centres or special clinics. A small number of optometrists do not enter private practice after completing their course but continue their studies through research and teaching. These optometrists are scientists in vision and usually obtain higher degrees such as the Masters degree or Doctor of Philosophy. Each State of Australia has an Optometrists' Registration Act which controls the practice of optometry and is administered by a Registration Board.