Corneal transplantation is the most common form of transplantation worldwide – restoring vision to thousands every year. Flinders University has played a leading role in improving clinical and eye bank practices through the establishment of the Australian Corneal Graft Registry (ACGR), the largest and most comprehensive registry of its kind in the world.

Founded in 1985 by researchers at Flinders Medical Centre and Flinders University, the ACGR has tracked more than 48,000 corneal grafts and now captures over 90% of all such procedures performed in Australia. Its success lies in the close collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and eye banks across the country.

The Registry has led to transformative insights into graft survival, directly impacting surgical practice and donor criteria. Notably, data from the ACGR confirmed that donor-related factors and eye bank procedures have minimal impact on graft success – thereby expanding the pool of eligible donors and enabling more flexible surgery scheduling.

The ACGR’s influence is global. Its evidence base supports national health policy, has shaped international standards, and continues to underpin future innovations in corneal transplant science.

Congratulations to all involved in this long-standing and world-leading contribution to eye health, and especially to Flinders Emeritus Professor Keryn Williams AC, who continues to serve as the ACGR’s Scientific Director and to Emeritus Professor Doug Coster AO FRANZCO, the foundational ACGR Medical Director.