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Fred Hollows Foundation

The Fred Hollows Foundation is an international development organisation working towards eliminating avoidable blindness and improving Indigenous Australian health.

The Foundation is independent, not-for-profit, politically unaligned and secular. It now works in more than 25 countries and has restored sight to over three million people worldwide.

The Foundation is overseen by a Board of Directors, which includes Founding Director Gabi Hollows. CEO, Ian Wishart, leads day-to-day operations and Fred’s great mate and fellow humanitarian, Dr Sanduk Ruit advises.

Vision and mission

The Fred Hollows Foundation has a very clear goals – putting an end to avoidable blindness, restoring sight, fighting for change and empowering communities.

The Foundation has a fierce determination to improve the eye health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

The Foundation works towards a world where no person is needlessly blind or vision impaired. For everyone, no matter whether they’re rich or poor, to have the right to high quality and affordable eye care.

How The Fred Hollows Foundation can help

When someone's sight is restored, it gives them a chance for a better life. They're able to work, go to school and provide for their families.

The Fred Hollows Foundation focus is on preventable and treatable diseases such as cataract, trachoma and diabetic retinopathy. In-country work involves local training and providing affordable technology, so doctors, nurses and health care workers can recognise, diagnose, refer and treat eye problems in their communities. They use research to improve understanding of avoidable blindness, then use findings to implement strategies and advocate for change.

Information / help lines

  • Call 1800 352 352 Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm AEST

Programs, apps and tools

Recommended links

Last reviewed: October 2024

Information from this partner

Found 12 results

Glossary of Eye Conditions | Fred Hollows Foundation

Glaucoma, Cataract and Trachoma are just a few examples of many eye conditions and diseases that exist worldwide. Learn more with a list of common eye conditions and terms.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

Intraocular Lens Implant - IOL Surgery | Fred Hollows Foundation

IOLs are an integral part of restoring sight to someone with cataract.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

What We Do | Indigenous Australia | Fred Hollows Foundation

Many factors contribute to Indigenous & Aboriginal Health, including social determinants and cultural reasons. Fred Hollows is an eye health charity dedicated to Indigenous health outcomes.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

Diabetes Eye Health Guide | Fred Hollows Foundation

The Diabetes Eye Health Guide is a practical & informative document developed for primary health professionals on managing diabetic retinopathy.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

Uncorrected Refractive Error | Causes & Treatments | Fred Hollows Foundation

Uncorrected refractive error is the most common cause of vision impairment, and the second leading cause of blindness in the world. Learn about the causes and treatments.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

Five Frequently Asked Questions About Refractive Error | Fred Hollows Foundation

Refractive error is the most common cause of vision impairment, and uncorrected refractive error is the second leading cause of blindness in the world. Discover the answers to five frequently asked questions about refractive error.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

Diabetic Retinopathy | Causes & Treatment | Fred Hollows

The Fred Hollows Foundation's programs treat many diseases like diabetic retinopathy which can lead to blindness. Learn about this terrible eye condition.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

Function & Anatomy Of The Human Eye - Fred Hollows Foundation

Eyes are important organs that help us navigate our way through the world. Learn more about how eyes work and how eye diseases affect our sight.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

What Is Trachoma Disease? Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness in the world today. Read our in depth guide about the common causes, symptoms and treatments available.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

Eye Cataracts: Causes & Treatments | Fred Hollows Foundation

Cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide. There are several prominent causes and treatments available. Fred Hollows provides access to treatment for those affected.

Read more on Fred Hollows Foundation website

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