Veterans requiring prescription sunglasses will now be able to join the growing number of Australians choosing acrylic photochromic, or transition lenses, after a decision by the Repatriation Commission to expand the range of visual aids available to eligible veterans. Minister for Veterans' Affairs Bruce Billson announced that eligible veterans prescribed transition lenses will now have the cost covered by the Department of Veterans' Affairs.

"Previously only those veterans requiring lightweight spectacles for protection from sun glare-usually eye surgery patients with fragile or damaged facial skin-have been able to access transition lenses through my Department," he said. "With the cost of transition lenses decreasing, and the technology improving with lighter, shatter-proof acrylic material, transition lenses are an increasingly effective and viable treatment option and their prescription can be a valuable prevention measure."

Transition lenses automatically darken as they are exposed to sunlight, and lighten when no longer exposed, so they can be worn indoor and outdoor. Like sunglasses, these lenses reduce glare and protect the eyes against damage by ultraviolet (UV) exposure, which has been linked to a range of ocular disorders, including cataracts, pterygium, cancer of the skin around the eye, photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea) and corneal degenerative changes.

"The cost of treating the results of UV exposure is significant, with my Department spending more than $20 million annually on ophthalmology procedures. Veterans are also increasingly requiring treatment for the combined effects of long-term sun exposure and deterioration of skin quality," Mr Billson said. "My Department is constantly reviewing its range of available optical aids to keep pace with technological advances and provide the highest possible standard of care for veterans."

In determining the Schedule of Prescribable Items, the Repatriation Commission is advised by the Optical Advisory Group, which is an expert panel comprising representatives of optometrical and optical dispensing representative bodies, DVA's Optical Adviser and departmental representatives.