Frequently Asked Questions

  • General eye care FAQ's
  • Glasses and sunglasses FAQ's
  • Contact Lenses FAQ's
  • Children's eye care FAQ's
  • Appointments and our practice FAQ's

General eye care

What services do you offer?

We offer comprehensive eye examinations including wide-field retinal photography for adults and children, contact lens fitting for new and existing wearers, urgent ocular consultations (foreign body removal, eye infections/acute conditions etc), co-management of eye conditions including macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts (alongside GP/Ophthalmologist), dilated fundus examinations to assess and diagnose diabetic eye changes.

How often should I have an eye test?

How often you should have an eye examination depends on your age, eye health, family history and individual visual needs. Your optometrist will recommend an appropriate review schedule based on your circumstances.

What happens during an eye test?

At Clacher & Hook, we take the time to understand your visual needs and any concerns you may have. Your examination may include a discussion about your eyes and general health, vision testing, a comprehensive assessment of your eye health and digital imaging where appropriate. We will explain the results and discuss any recommendations with you.

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, appointments are recommended so we can ensure you receive a thorough and unhurried consultation. You can book online or contact our practice to arrange a suitable time.

Can I have an eye test if I don't think I need glasses?

Absolutely. An eye examination is about much more than determining whether you need glasses. Comprehensive eye examinations can also help detect changes in your eye health and vision.

Can you check for eye diseases?

Yes. Our comprehensive eye examinations include an assessment of your eye health and screening for a range of eye conditions. Where further investigation or specialist care is required, we can discuss your options and arrange an appropriate referral. We are equipped with the latest technology: wide-field retinal camera (Optos), Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) & visual fields analyser to better monitor and diagnose eye conditions.

Can your optometrists prescribe medicated eye drops?

Yes. Our therapeutically qualified optometrists can prescribe therapeutic eye drops for certain eye conditions, including some infections, allergies and contact lens-related complications. If specialist care is required, we can refer you to the appropriate medical professional


Glasses and sunglasses

How long will it take to receive my new glasses?

Once your glasses have been ordered, they typically arrive within seven to ten working days. We will contact you when they are ready for collection and will check the fit and vision with your new glasses.

Can you help me choose frames that suit me?

Of course. Our experienced dispensing team can help you choose frames based on your prescription, face shape, lifestyle, personal style and budget.

Do you offer prescription sunglasses?

Yes. We offer a range of prescription sunglasses to suit different vision requirements and lifestyles.

Do you offer safety glasses?

Yes. We can provide certified safety spectacles and help you select an option suitable for your visual and workplace requirements.

Can I bring my glasses in for an adjustment or clean?

Yes. You are always welcome to visit us for complimentary frame adjustments and cleaning.


Contact lenses

Do you sell contact lenses?

Yes. We offer a broad range of contact lenses, including daily, fortnightly, monthly, extended wear, coloured and custom contact lenses. All our optometrists are contact lens practitioners.

I've never worn contact lenses before. Can you teach me how?

Absolutely! If you're new to contact lenses, there's no need to worry. Our experienced team will guide you through the process of inserting, removing and caring for your contact lenses, ensuring you feel confident and comfortable before you leave.

How do I know which contact lenses are right for me?

Whether you're new to contact lenses or looking to change your current lens type, our optometrists can help you find the most suitable option for your lifestyle and visual needs. During your initial contact lens fitting appointment, we will assess your vision and lens comfort, discuss the best options for you, and teach new wearers how to insert, remove and properly care for their contact lenses. These appointments can take up to an hour, allowing plenty of time for questions and practice so you can feel comfortable and confident with the process.

Can I order replacement contact lenses?

Yes. Existing patients can order replacement contact lenses through our website or by contacting the practice.

Do you offer contact lenses for more complex prescriptions?

We offer a range of contact lens options, including custom contact lenses. Your optometrist can assess your eyes and discuss the most suitable options for your individual needs.


Children's eye care

Do you see children?

Yes. We provide children's vision assessments and eye examinations. Children's vision is important for learning and development, so regular checks can help identify vision concerns.

Do you bulk-bill children's eye tests?

We bulk-bill children and full-time students. Please contact us if you have any questions about eligibility or your appointment.


Appointments and our practice

How can I book an appointment?

You can book an appointment online or contact our friendly team on (07) 3396 1755.

What payment methods do you accept?

We accept cash, Visa, Mastercard & American Express, as well as Direct Debit.

Does Medicare cover an eye test?

As we are a private billing practice, your consultation will attract a consultation fee that is claimable through Medicare. We will process your claim onsite, and you should receive your rebate into your nominated bank account within 1-2 business days.

Can I claim my health fund in practice?

Yes we have a HICAPS* terminal whereby we can do on-the-spot health fund claiming for all health funds.


*HICAPS stands for Health Industry Claims and Payments Service.

Do you offer concessions?

Yes. We offer concessions for eligible pension card holders, Veterans' Affairs card holders, healthcare card holders and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders. Concession card holders are also entitled to a bulk-billed eye examination (fee applies for wide-angle retinal photography).

Do I need a referral to see an optometrist?

No. You do not need a referral to book an appointment with one of our optometrists.

What should I bring to my appointment?

If applicable, please bring your current glasses/sunglasses, contact lenses or relevant eye health information. If you have a Medicare card or private health insurance, it is also helpful to have these details available. For any new patients, we will send out a Welcome to our Practice Form to assist us in collecting relevant information prior to your visit with us.