Certain Extras benefits have changed from 1 January 2026. You can learn more about the Benefit Changes and how they may apply to you here.

Protect their eyes 
 with kids sunglasses

Kid in sunglassesAustralian parents are well aware of the need for sunscreen and hats, but there’s one more essential item for your child’s health:kids sunglasses. They’re not just a cute accessory — they’re a shield against serious eye damage.

Kids spend a lot of time outdoors, and their eyes are more sensitive to UV rays than adults'. According to the Cancer Council, protecting their eyes now with kids sunglasses can prevent lifelong problems later.

Fortunately, Westfund members with Extras cover can use their annual sunglasses benefit for kids sunglasses via our online shop, The Collection, or at a Westfund Eye Care Centre.

Why UV protection matters for kids

UV light can harm eyes in both the short and long term. For children, the risks are even higher because their lenses are clearer, letting in more UV radiation. Damage can lead to:

  • Sunburn of the eye (photokeratopathy) – redness, soreness and temporary vision loss.
  • Eye cancers – tumours on or around the eye.
  • Surfer’s eye (pterygium) – a growth on the cornea from sun, wind, and sand.
  • Pinguecula – yellowish spots on the eye’s surface.
  • Cataracts – 10% of cases are linked to UV exposure.
  • Macular degeneration – a leading cause of blindness later in life.

Some of these conditions require surgery; others, like macular degeneration, have no cure. The good news? They’re preventable with the right protection.

Tips for picking kids sunglasses

Check the UV rating

Look for kids sunglasses that meet AS/NZS 1067:2003 standards. Aim for Category 3 or 4 lenses for strong UV protection and glare reduction.

Don’t judge by colour

Dark lenses don’t always mean better protection. Grey, green, or brown lenses offer good colour perception — great for outdoor play.

Price isn’t everything

A $25 pair can protect as well as a $250 pair. Always check the label for UV protection, not the price tag.

Start early

Just like sunscreen, kids sunglasses should be part of your child’s routine from a young age. The earlier they start, the better their long-term eye health.

Make it a habit year-round

UV rays don’t take a break in winter or on cloudy days. Sunglasses should be worn whenever kids are outdoors.

Enjoy the sun, safely

Australia’s sunshine may be a gift, but it needs to be respected. Make it a habit to ensure your kids eyes are protected. Check the label, choose the right style, and make kids sunglasses as essential as sunscreen.

Annual sunglasses benefit

Westfund members with Extras cover have a sunglasses benefit of up to $100 per year* to purchase our already well-priced kids sunglasses. In fact, many of the kids sunglasses available are so well priced that there may not be any out-of-pocket expenses (other than postage).

They’re available at any Westfund Eyecare Centre or at The Collection, Westfund’s online sunglasses shop, where there are a great range of kids (and adults) sunglasses that combine fashion and function.

*Applies to non-prescription sunglasses only – benefit depends on your level of extras cover. Annual limits and waiting periods apply.

Information sourced from the Australian Cancer Council.