Discussions have continued with the Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) in relation to the Flexible Funds. Unfortunately, the unexpected call for submissions for a number of funds has put considerable pressure on Vision 2020 Australia and members to develop proposals which are due 23 December 2011. Vision 2020 Australia has been very proactive in securing support for eye health and vision care within the Flexible Funds, with Amanda Rishworth MP writing to the Minister for Health, the Hon Nicola Roxon who has responded.
A meeting was held on 21 November with David Butt, newly appointed Deputy Secretary of DoHA. Discussion focussed on the work of Vision 2020 Australia, the National Framework, recent National Stocktake and our approach to the Flexible Funds. An opportunity also arose to speak with Jane Halton, Secretary of DoHA, who supported Vision 2020 Australia’s approach to bringing the sector together to look at national projects under the new Flexible Funds.