CERA and Cerulea Clinical Trials believe that involving consumers – people who have lived experience of eye conditions and vision loss – is essential for driving impactful and meaningful research.  

Our Consumer Program is designed to integrate the insights, experiences and perspectives of people living with eye diseases directly into our research processes. By engaging with consumers, we aim to produce research that is not only scientifically rigorous but also relevant and beneficial to those it affects most.

Why consumer engagement is important to us

Consumer engagement isn’t just a checkbox – it’s a strategic priority.

We recognise that research shaped by the voices of those who experience vision loss or eye conditions can lead to better, more practical solutions.

Engaging consumers helps us: 

• ensure our research addresses real-world needs and priorities

• build stronger partnerships with the community

• drive innovation in clinical trials by incorporating consumer perspectives

• enhance the accessibility and relevance of our findings.

By fostering collaboration between researchers and consumers, we are building a future where research truly reflects the needs of those it serves. 

The Consumer Advisory Group is a cornerstone of the CERA Consumer Program. The group is made up of dedicated consumers who bring their lived experiences and diverse perspectives to the table – helping to guide and inform our research strategy. They are joined by advocacy organisation members and representatives of our researcher community. 

The group plays a critical role in ensuring that the consumer voice is not only heard but actively shapes our research direction. 

Roles and responsibilities

As detailed in its Terms of Reference, the Consumer Advisory Group’s scope and responsibilities are: 

• Advising on research direction: Providing insights and feedback on CERA’s research direction, focusing on areas that impact participant care and outcomes. 

• Overseeing consumer involvement: Assisting in developing the Consumer Involvement Program at CERA that engages consumers at various levels of participation in research, policy and strategic development. 

• Community engagement: Assisting in developing and implementing strategies for community engagement, promoting awareness, and understanding of eye health issues and the importance of CERA’s research. 

• Reviewing educational materials: Contributing to the creation and review of participant and consumer education materials – ensuring they are clear, relevant, and accessible. 
• Policy and practice recommendations: Making recommendations on policies and practices that affect participants and consumer care and research – reflecting the needs of the wider community. 
• Supporting innovation and technology: Providing input on innovations and technologies that can enhance eye health care, treatment and participation in research and clinical trials. 

Are you living with an eye disease or vision loss – or supporting someone who is? Your experiences and insights can shape the future of eye research.

Our Consumer Program partners people like you with our researchers to create studies that reflect the real needs of those impacted by vision conditions.

Stay tuned for announcements about upcoming focus groups, workshops and events where you can share your experiences and ideas.

We believe every voice matters and consumer insights are vital to driving meaningful research.

We’d love to hear from you. To find out more about the Consumer Program or ask any questions, please email: ConsumerProgram@cera.org.au

Our team will get back to you with more information.