What a proper eye test actually involves
Forty minutes, bulk billed, with retinal imaging included as standard — never a $35 add-on the way it is at some chains.
What actually happens in the room
0–5 min · History and what has changed
What you have noticed, what you do all day, medications, family history of glaucoma or macular degeneration. This is what sets the rest of the test.
5–12 min · Imaging and screening
Retinal photographs, visual field screening and eye pressure. All three included, whatever your reason for coming in.
12–25 min · Refraction
Working out your prescription with a proper lens comparison. Rushing this is why people end up with glasses that never feel right.
25–32 min · Eye health examination
A slit-lamp examination of the front of the eye and a dilated look at the retina where indicated. Dilation makes you light-sensitive for a few hours, so bring sunglasses or borrow a pair.
32–38 min · What we found
Your own retinal images on the screen, in plain language, including anything we are watching rather than treating.
38–40 min · What happens next
A prescription if you need one, a recall date, a referral if warranted, and a letter to your GP where it matters.
Book sooner if you notice
Sudden vision loss, a curtain across your vision, or a shower of new floaters with flashing lights is an emergency — ring us immediately and we will either see you within the hour or send you straight to the eye hospital. Otherwise, book sooner rather than at your next routine test if any of these apply.
Sudden blurring in one eye
New floaters or flashes of light
A shadow or curtain across your vision
Straight lines looking bent or wavy
Eye pain with redness and light sensitivity
Double vision that has just started
What a comprehensive test includes
Four facts about the test itself — not a claim about what any particular test will find.
Length of a standard comprehensive eye test here.
Cost with a Medicare card, including retinal imaging.
Checks included in every comprehensive test, none billed separately.
Typical wait for a routine appointment.
Bulk-billed eye tests, most weeks inside three days
Open seven days with the centre. Ring and we will usually offer you something inside three days.