Clear vision, compassionate care
At Junic Eyecare Coombs, Juliet leads with both medical expertise and genuine compassion. Since founding the locally owned clinic in 2020, she has built a trusted space for comprehensive, patient-focused eye care. With nearly two decades of experience, Juliet’s approach blends advanced knowledge with warmth and understanding, ensuring each patient feels seen, valued and empowered in their journey toward better eye health.
Tell us about your organisation, how long you have been there and your role within it.
Junic Eyecare Coombs is a locally owned and operated optometry clinic dedicated to providing high-quality, personalised eye care to the Canberra community. Since opening our doors in 2020, our goal has been to combine clinical excellence with genuine compassion — ensuring every patient feels cared for, informed, and valued.
We offer a full range of optometry services, including comprehensive eye examinations, children’s vision care, dry eye spa (detailed diagnosis and management), and a curated selection of eyewear.
As the Director and Owner, I oversee the overall operations and direction of the practice, ensuring that our team continues to deliver exceptional service and uphold our standard of excellence in community eye health.
Can you share your career journey so far and how it brought you to your current role?
My career in eye care began nearly two decades ago, and it’s been an incredibly rewarding journey. After completing my Doctor of Optometry degree overseas, I moved to Australia to further my studies, earning a master’s in public health from the University of Sydney and a Master’s in Orthoptics from UTS.
I successfully passed the OCANZ examinations, which allowed me to practise as an optometrist in Australia and later gained endorsement as an ophthalmic prescriber through the Ocular Therapeutics program. This means I can diagnose and treat eye conditions, including prescribing medications — something I’m very proud of.
Before founding Junic Eyecare Coombs, I worked in both hospital and research settings, including the Ophthalmology Department at Canberra Hospital and the John Curtin School of Medical Research at ANU. Those experiences inspired me to create a practice that blends medical expertise with genuine, personalised care.
What advice do you have for the next generation of women in business?
My advice for the next generation of women in business is to trust your expertise, embrace leadership opportunities, and never underestimate the value of your voice. Be bold in pursuing your goals, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to combine your professional skills with your unique perspective—whether that’s in business, clinical work, or any field you’re passionate about.
What methods do you use to unwind from work?
To unwind from work, I focus on activities that recharge both my mind and body. I enjoy spending quality time with family and friends, exercising to stay active, and engaging in hobbies that spark creativity. Taking time to pause and reflect helps me maintain balance and return to work feeling energised and focused.
