Sharon Bentley

Professor Sharon Bentley is an Adjunct Professor in the School of Clinical Sciences at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), specializing in Optometry and Vision Science. She holds leadership roles, including former Deputy Dean and Head of the QUT School of Optometry and Vision Science. Her expertise spans optometry education, clinical practice, and public health, with a focus on Indigenous eye care and vision impairment impacts on quality of life. She has received prestigious awards, including the American Academy of Optometry Brazelton Award and Churchill Fellowship. Bentley’s research emphasizes low vision rehabilitation, diabetic eyecare guidelines, and cultural competency in optometric education.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Science (University of Melbourne)
• Master of Public Health (Johns Hopkins University)
• Masters in Optometry and Public Health

Research Interests: Bentley’s work addresses vision impairment’s societal impact, including driving safety, Indigenous health disparities, and health service evaluation. She advocates for equitable eye care access and has pioneered culturally safe education frameworks in optometry curricula.

Awards:

• American Academy of Optometry Brazelton Award
• Churchill Fellowship
• Fellow of the Australian College of Optometry

Grants & Leadership: Bentley has directed eye care services for 60,000+ disadvantaged individuals annually and chaired national committees like Vision 2020 Australia’s Independence and Participation Committee. She serves as a non-executive director at Vision Australia and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.

Labs/Teams: Her research collaborates with Vision Australia and international groups, focusing on diabetic eyecare protocols, low vision rehabilitation, and Indigenous health equity initiatives.