$14m plan to transform eye care in Western Australia

The Lions Eye Institute aims to take vision care in Western Australia to the next level with a $14.1 million redevelopment of its Perth base.

The transformation of its theatre complex at the Queen Elizabeth II Medical Centre in Nedlands marks the Institute's largest investment in its facilities for 30 years.

"This redevelopment represents a significant milestone in the Institute's history, as we continue to invest in the future of eye care," Managing Director Dr Glen Power said.

"By modernising this complex, patient facilities will be made more comfortable and efficient, with new reception and waiting areas, new ophthalmic testing areas and shared facilities."

Key upgrades include a complete redesign of the theatre complex, increasing the size of two operating theatres, creating a dedicated Laser Vision suite, and modernisation of outpatient spaces to improve comfort and capacity.

Medical Director Professor Chandra Balaratnasingam said the redevelopment would be a pivotal step in modernising the Institute's clinical capabilities and providing more patient services.

"The upgraded theatres and outpatient spaces will enable us to treat more complex cases and increase surgical throughput, while also enhancing care for young patients across the state," he said.

A visual representation of a planned post-operating area at the Lions Eye Institute

"As a medical research institute, we have deliberately designed the new theatre complex to integrate clinical care with our laboratories and data platforms, creating a seamless pathway for translational research that will range from discovery science and prototyping through to first-in-human evaluation.

"This will accelerate investigator-initiated studies and industry partnerships, expand our capacity for advanced ocular imaging and biobanking, and ensure Western Australian patients can access cutting-edge therapies sooner."

Designed by leading architects Hames Sharley, the redevelopment will include new consulting suites for the glaucoma, eyelid, orbital and lacrimal surgery and paediatric specialists who practise adjacent to the theatre complex, due to open in early 2026, as well as space for a second paediatric ophthalmologist practising at the Lions Eye Institute.

Founded in 1983, the private not-for-profit organisation treats several thousand inpatients for eye surgeries every year, while its outpatient clinics provide more than 80,000 specialist-led ophthalmology consultations annually.

Its original theatres opened in 1996 – the new ones and the laser vision procedure room are expected to open in 2027.

"The redevelopment will expand and enhance our offering for patients," Dr Power said.

"It will allow us to serve more Western Australians in a facility that meets contemporary design standards and provides greater comfort and amenity to our patients, their families and carers.

"The range of advanced medical technology proposed will ensure the Institute remains at the forefront of ophthalmic care and vision research."

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