Global Low Vision Conference to be held in Melbourne

September 12, 2025

Melbourne has been chosen as the host destination for Vision 2027, the 16th International Conference of the International Society for Low Vision Research and Rehabilitation (ISLRR). Melbourne’s successful bid reiterates the city’s worldwide credentials as a leader in healthcare and medical research, specifically in vision impairment and sight-threatening conditions.

The conference was secured by the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB) in partnership with the Centre for Eye Research Australia and the University of Melbourne, with the invaluable support of Vision 2027’s President Professor Lauren Ayton. Vision 2027 will attract over 750 delegates from around the world and is expected to contribute over $3 million to the local economy. The three-day conference will take place in September 2027 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The biennial conference is a leading gathering of experts in vision impairment that provides a crucial opportunity for sharing ideas and advancements in the field. Attended by specialists in eye disease, vision correction and rehabilitation, pharmaceutical interventions, and assistive technology, as well as educators and policymakers, the event presents a significant opportunity to amplify Victoria's impact and reputation in addressing visual impairment.

Melbourne’s successful bid highlights the state’s commitment to supporting individuals with low vision and advancing research in this important area of health. Victoria is recognised globally for our commitment to health and wellbeing, and people with low vision are supported through a range of policies and programs including Vision Initiative, which aims to prevent avoidable blindness and address the impact of vision loss in the community, and the Victorian Eyecare Service, which provides low-cost eye care and visual aids to disadvantaged Victorians. In addition, Melbourne is home to dedicated research and treatment facilities such as the Centre for Eye Research and the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital.

Vision 2027 is the latest international medical conference to be coming to Melbourne, with the city also securing the World Cancer Leaders’ Summit 2025, and the International Diabetes Federations Western Pacific Regional Congress 2026.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos

“We’re showcasing Victoria’s leadership in medical research on the global stage and supporting our business events sector in the process.”

“Experts from around the world will flock to Melbourne, allowing our local hotels, restaurants and attractions to reap the rewards.”

Quote attributable to Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs Danny Pearson

"This event will bring together some of the brightest minds in medical research, showcasing Victoria’s world-class medical research ecosystem and boosting the economy." 

Quote attributable to Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson

"Melbourne’s ability to foster collaboration and innovation is a testament to our strong community of knowledge leaders and the fantastic infrastructure provided by our city to host global gatherings of experts in healthcare. Events like Vision 2027 drive progress and build a better future.”

Quote attributable to International Society for Low Vision Research and Rehabilitation (ISLRR) President Ben Thompson

“ISLRR is delighted to partner with Professor Ayton and her team at the University of Melbourne for Vision 2027. The Vision conference series brings together low vision stakeholders from around the world with the goal of enhancing quality of life for those experiencing vision loss. Vision 2027 will be a catalyst for new collaborations and will advance low vision research.”

Quote attributable to Vision 2027 President and Centre for Eye Research Australia Deputy Director Professor Lauren Ayton

“We are thrilled to be welcoming the best and brightest minds working on low vision rehabilitation and research to Melbourne in 2027, where they will work alongside people living with low vision and blindness to think about innovations and improvements in the vision sector”.

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Media enquiries:

Emma Hall, Melbourne Convention Bureau

T +61 429 553 183 E [email protected]