Not only was he able to see clearly but he could watch the expressions of his two daughters properly for the first time.

The Melton resident says at first it felt a bit strange that someone had to die so his life could improve.

But after suffering from keratoconus - the thinning of the cornea's central zone - for more than 20 years, he is overjoyed that his vision is no longer distorted.

"The gift I received has made my life more enriching and joyous ... just being able to see the expressions of my children."

Seven years after his corneal transplant, which came following an 11-month wait, Mr Couley says he has sent a letter thanking the donor's family.

"I would have liked to meet [them] ... I probably would have given them a big hug."

Mr Couley says he will be forever grateful to the person who gave their organs to help those who needed them. He's urging Melton residents to discuss their donation wishes with their families during DonateLife Week (February 19-26).

"I'd like to stress to people that you can't take your organs with you, but you could help six or seven people.

"Every day I quietly thank whoever it was that donated the cornea to me ... you can't put it into words."

According to DonateLife Victoria, families who have discussed and know each other's donation wishes are more likely to uphold those wishes.

The Victorian medical director for organ and tissue donation, Dr Helen Opdam, says some Australians still find it difficult to bring up the subject with their family.

"Deciding to have the discussion during DonateLife Week can help normalise the subject and make it OK to talk about."

For more details about organ donation, visit donatelife.gov.au