Once again the Queen’s Birthday Awards have honoured outstanding Australians who have made a significant contribution to Australian society, and once again Vision 2020 Australia is thrilled to be associated with a number of these outstanding Australians. The Board and staff of Vision 2020 Australia warmly congratulate each of the recipients on their awards and thanks them for their tireless efforts in each of their chosen fields.
Professor Nathan Efron AC
President of the Australian College of Optometry and researcher at the Queensland University of Technology, Prof Efron was appointed Companion of the Order of Australia for his eminent service to medicine in the field of clinical optometry, particularly to vision correction and corneal physiology, as an academic, researcher and author, to the treatment of juvenile diabetes, and through executive roles with national and international professional organisations. Prof Efron is the first optometrist to receive this honour.
David Eiszele AC
The former Chair of the Lions Eye Institute has been appointed Companion of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to public administration in Western Australia, particularly to the electricity supply and natural gas sectors, to policy development and reform, and to eye health research.
John Howie AM
Lawyer and Vision 2020 Australia Board member, John Howie was made a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to the community of Victoria, particularly through leadership of film, arts and sporting organisations, and to the law.
Adjunct Professor Jane Halton PSM AC
Secretary of the Department of Finance, former Secretary of the Department of Health and former Chair Executive Board of the World Health Assembly, Jane Halton was appointed Companion of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to public administration, particularly to the health and aged care sectors, through the development and implementation of public policy, and to professional national and international organisations.
Dr Alan Isaacs AM
Ophthalmologist and Life Member of the Australian College of Optometry, Dr Isaacs was awarded a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to medical education, particularly in the field of ophthalmology, and to professional organisations.
Finn Pratt PSM AC
Secretary of the Department of Social Services, former Secretary of FaHCSIA and instrumental in the National Disability Insurance Scheme, Finn Pratt was appointed Companion of the Order of Australia for distinguished service to public administration, to social policy development and government service delivery reform, and to care and support for people with a disability, their families and carers.
The full list of recipients can be viewed on the Canberra Times website.