Subsidies & rebates for hearing care
Hearing tests and hearing aids may cost less than you think. Australians can get help with hearing costs through private health extras, the Australian Government Hearing Services Program, DVA, the NDIS and Medicare. Here’s how each one works and where to find out more.
Ways to get help with hearing costs in Australia
Which option suits you depends on your cards, your health cover and the service you need. Many people qualify for more than one, so it’s worth checking each.
Private health rebates for hearing aids and audiology
Many extras covers pay towards hearing aids and audiology visits. Limits, waiting periods and how often you can claim differ from fund to fund and cover to cover.
Our guide lists hearing benefits for 36 Australian health funds, so you can see what your extras may pay before you choose hearing aids.
Free or subsidised hearing services through the HSP
The Australian Government Hearing Services Program can cover your hearing assessment and provide free or subsidised hearing aids, with ongoing support.
It’s for eligible people aged 21 or over, such as Pensioner Concession Card holders, DVA Gold Card holders (or White Card holders for hearing) and ADF members.
Medicare rebates for eligible hearing assessments
With a GP referral, Medicare can pay part of your hearing test. Without a referral, the full fee applies. Medicare doesn’t pay for hearing aids.
Use our estimator to see your appointment fee, your Medicare rebate and what you’ll pay.
Hearing support through DVA and the NDIS
Veterans
Eligible veterans can also get extra hearing support through DVA, such as assistive listening devices and tinnitus treatment. We’ll seek DVA approval for you.
NDIS participants
If you’re eligible for the Hearing Services Program, your hearing support comes through the program. The NDIS may fund extra supports it doesn’t cover.
New to the Hearing Services Program?
Our blog guide explains the Australian Government Hearing Services Program for pensioners, veterans and their families.
Read our guide to the Hearing Services Program →
Check if you qualify
Opens the official Hearing Services Program checker in a small window (you enter your pension / DVA details on the government site). Our page stays open in the background.
Not sure which applies to you?
Call us on 07 3822 1879 and our team will help you work out what you may be covered for before your appointment. All figures on these pages are a guide only. Please confirm your benefits with your health fund or the relevant program.