The research conducted by CERA and Cerulea Clinical Trials happens for one reason – the people experiencing vision loss and their families. 

We need to ensure that these people have input into every aspect – from the type of research conducted, to how trials are designed and how findings are ultimately shared with the community. 

CERA’s inaugural Consumer Advisory Group, appointed in 2024, includes independent consumers – Jane Cherry, Dr Colleen Lewis, Dr Ronelle Hutchinson and Daniel Talko – along with Chris Edwards from Vision Australia, CERA researchers Dr Myra McGuinness, Dr Flora Hui and Dr Luis Alarcon-Martinez and Cerulea Clinical Trials representative Professor Lyndell Lim. 

Group Chair CERA Board Director Simon Brewin says the new group oversees the Consumer Program and ensures that consumer insights directly shape research priorities, the development of new treatments for eye disease and the overall direction of CERA and Cerulea. 

“The establishment of the group is a turning point,” he says. 

“Involving consumers directly in our research isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s going to make our work more impactful. 

“These are the voices that matter most, and we’re making sure they guide our research.” 

The program initiative was established by Consumer Involvement and Advocacy Lead Kelly Schulz, who held her role throughout 2024. 

“The strength of this group lies in the diversity of perspectives and lived experiences each member brings,’’ she says. 

“This advisory group marks the starting point for CERA’s broader Consumer Program, laying the foundation for meaningful, long-term involvement of consumers in our research and strategy.” 

The group provides advice on various aspects of CERA and Cerulea’s work, from early research design and clinical trial experience to the rollout of results. This collaboration will help ensure that CERA’s research is both practical and responsive to the needs of the community. 

The Consumer Program is also supported by more than 30 consumer advisors who have volunteered to provide feedback, advice and guidance on individual research projects. 

CERA Managing Director Professor Keith Martin says involving consumers directly in research is a powerful step forward. 

“Consumer insights will help ensure our work has real-world impact, benefiting those who need it most,’’ he says. 

“The launch of the Consumer Advisory Group marks an important step forward for CERA as it continues to advance eye research. 

“By embedding consumer perspectives, CERA is strengthening its commitment to more inclusive, community-driven research — working alongside other organisations that share this goal.

This story was originally published in Share our vision: Annual Review 2024.