HEARING AIDS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS

The Audiology Place is proud to be a Contracted Service Provider under the Government Hearing Services Program. This means that if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident over the age of 21 and meet any of the following conditions, you may be eligible for fully subsidised hearing aids:

  • Holder of a Pensioner Concession Card
  • Holder of a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card
  • Holder of a Department of Veterans’ Affairs White Card issued for specific conditions that include hearing loss
  • Receiving Sickness Allowance from Centrelink
  • Dependent of a person in one of the above categories
  • Member of the Australian Defence Force
  • Referred by the Disability Employment Services (Disability Management Services) Program
  • National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) participant with hearing needs, referred by a planner from the National Disability Insurance Agency

If you believe you may be eligible or have any questions about the program, please contact us. We're here to help you navigate your options and ensure you receive the best possible care and support for your hearing needs.

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What Is the Hearing Services Program?

The HSP is a national initiative that provides access to high-quality hearing services and hearing devices to eligible Australians. It is designed to improve communication, independence and quality of life through subsidised care. Depending on your needs, you may be entitled to a fully subsidised hearing device (no out-of-pocket cost) or a partially subsidised device, where you pay only the gap for enhanced features.

Who Is Eligible?

You may be eligible for the voucher scheme under the HSP if you are:

  • An Australian citizen or permanent resident (including Norfolk Island residents),

  • Aged 21 or older,

  • And meet one of the following:

    • A Pensioner Concession Card holder or their spouse,

    • A Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold or White Card holder (hearing-specific conditions),

    • A member of the Australian Defence Force or a reservist in full-time service,

    • Referred by a Disability Employment Service.

Alternatively, the Community Service Obligation (CSO) component, administered by Hearing Australia, supports:

  • Children and young people under 26,

  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50+ or involved in the Community Development Program,

  • Those in remote areas or with complex hearing and communication needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

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1What Services Are Covered?
Under the HSP, eligible participants receive: Comprehensive hearing assessments, Advice on suitable hearing devices, Fitting and follow-up appointments, Ongoing device maintenance and support, Device repairs and replacements (subject to some fees).
2What Hearing Devices Are Available?
The program offers a wide range of hearing solutions, all of which must meet strict quality standards. Devices fall into two broad categories: Fully Subsidised Hearing Devices These devices are provided at no cost to you and must always be offered as an option. Fully subsidised hearing aids offer strong performance and meet clinical standards for most types of hearing loss. While they may not include all the latest add-on features, they are highly effective and often include: Behind-the-ear (BTE) or in-the-ear (ITE) styles, Digital processing, Feedback reduction, Directional microphones. At The Audiology Place, we always help you explore whether a fully subsidised device will meet your needs before considering partially subsidised options. Partially Subsidised Devices Some people prefer hearing devices with enhanced features such as: Rechargeability, Bluetooth connectivity for phone and media streaming, Advanced noise reduction, Additional sound processing channels. In this case, the government pays the equivalent subsidy of a basic device, and you pay the gap for the premium technology. Your audiologist must provide a full quote and explain what the extra cost covers – including warranty, maintenance, and return policies. You are never required to choose a more expensive device and can request comparison quotes from other providers if desired. Other Device Options The HSP also funds: CROS and BiCROS systems: for people with hearing in only one ear or with asymmetrical hearing loss. Assistive listening devices (ALDs): such as TV headsets or personal amplifiers for specific situations.
3What Happens if You Lose or Damage Your Device?
Lost or irreparably damaged devices can often be replaced with a small fee (typically around $50). In some situations, such as for DVA cardholders or individuals with dementia, this fee is waived. If you initially received a partially subsidised device, you would need to pay the gap again unless switching to a fully subsidised replacement.
4How often can I get a hearing assessment or new device under the program?
You are entitled to: One hearing assessment and one device fitting every five years, unless your circumstances change (e.g., significant hearing loss or change in needs).
5What is a maintenance agreement, and should I get one?
A maintenance agreement covers: Free batteries Routine servicing Minor repairs and part replacements One reprogramming or reconnection service per year It is highly recommended as a cost-effective way to manage your device. You pay a small annual fee (around $50 for fully subsidised devices; higher for partially subsidised), and the program pays the rest.
6Are rechargers for rechargeable devices covered?
No, rechargers are not covered by the program. This is an additional out-of-pocket expense if your device uses rechargeable batteries.
7What services are not covered by the Hearing Services Program?
The HSP does not cover: Ear wax removal Balance assessments or treatment Tinnitus management Maintenance/repairs if you don’t have a maintenance agreement Home visit surcharges Rechargers for rechargeable hearing aids If your voucher benefits are used up or you require services outside of what’s listed, you may need to pay privately.