History
The history of RANZCO reflects over a century of leadership in ophthalmology across Australia and New Zealand. From early state-based societies in the late 1800s to the formation of a trans-Tasman college, RANZCO has shaped professional eye care through training, research and advocacy. This timeline explores the milestones that define the RANZCO journey, from its founding in 1969 to its modern evolution as the peak body for ophthalmologists in the region.
Ophthalmology Roots (1899-1938)
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In 1899, Dr James Barrett and Dr A.L. Kennedy established the Ophthalmological Society of Victoria, marking early professional organisation in the field.
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Similar state societies emerged within the British Medical Association — New South Wales (1910), Queensland (1924), South Australia (1925), and Western Australia (1946).
Formation of a National College (1969-1977)
- To unify disparate qualifications, the Ophthalmological Society of Australia reformed into the Australian College of Ophthalmologists (ACO) in May 1969, creating a single nationwide training and examination system.
- The College was granted “Royal” status in 1977, becoming the Royal Australian College of Ophthalmologists (RACO).
Trans-Tasman Amalgamation (1992-2000)
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In the early 1990s, plans began to integrate ACO with the Ophthalmological Society of New Zealand (OSNZ), which had itself been founded in 1946.
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A secret ballot in 1996 showed strong OSNZ support; by 1997, the new entity formally included New Zealand, operating under a combined College name.
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Finally, in 2000, the College adopted its current name: Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (RANZCO), along with updated governance and strategic planning frameworks.
RANZCO – The College (2000-Present)
- Since 2000, RANZCO has enhanced its structure, updated fellowship training and CPD systems, and significantly expanded its role in health policy, research leadership, and global advocacy within the Asia-Pacific region.
- The College continues under robust strategic governance, now deeply engaged in initiatives like Vision 2030 and beyond, reinforcing its mission to eradicate avoidable blindness across Australia and New Zealand.