An audiologist diagnoses, manages, and treats hearing and balance disorders in patients of all ages.
You should consult an audiologist if you experience any issues regarding your ears and hearing. This includes hearing loss, persistent ear ringing (tinnitus), or issues with balance/vertigo.
An initial hearing assessment usually lasts around 30–60 minutes, depending on your needs and test complexity.
An ENT is a medical doctor / surgeon specialising in ear, nose, and throat conditions, while an audiologist specifically focuses on hearing and balance and is not a medical doctor or surgeon. ENTs and audiologist work together closing in providing care for their patients.
Yes, audiologists are the authority and experts when it comes to hearing aids. Audiologists assess your hearing needs and recommend the right type of hearing aid, ensuring it’s properly fitted and programmed.
Yes. In Australia, a qualified audiologist requires a Masters of Audiology and membership of a professional association. Our audiologists are full members of Audiology Australia, Independent Audiologists Australia, Hearing Business Alliance and the HearingUp network.
They should have a recognized degree in audiology and be registered with professional organisations such as Audiology Australia.
Some services may be covered under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program or through Medicare, depending on eligibility and referrals.
Look for clinic reviews, recommendations from GPs, and finding someone that follows and values Best Practice methods. The HearingUp network (lead by Dr Cliff Olson) features clinics who subscribe to such methodology to achieve the best outcome for patients.
Yes. Audiologists in Australia can conduct assessments, provide therapy options, and suggest hearing aids or devices that may help manage tinnitus.
Use online search tools (e.g., Google Maps) or professional directories to find certified audiologists near you. You can also use clinic finder tools on Independent Audiology Australia website as well as the HearingUp network provider.
They can offer hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, ear wax removal, and balance assessments, among other services.
Referrals vary by location and insurance plan, but many audiology clinics in Australia accept direct appointments. Referrals are required for medicare rebates where a doctor has requested audiology services to be performed.
Yes. An audiologist can perform immediate assessments and refer you to a specialist if urgent medical attention is needed. If you experience sudden hearing loss, please treat this as urgent. Let the reception know so such triaging and priority assessments can be performed accordingly.
It’s recommended to have your hearing checked annually or at least every two years, especially if you have existing hearing concerns.
It’s a hearing evaluation that measures your ability to hear different sounds, pitches, and frequencies.
You listen to various tones through headphones and indicate when you hear them. The results map out your hearing thresholds.
No. The test is completely painless and involves only listening to sounds at different volumes.
Typically 20-30minutes, depending on the complexity and if additional tests are needed.
They help diagnose hearing loss, guide treatment plans, and monitor changes in hearing over time.
Methods include microsuction, irrigation, or manual removal by a trained audiologist or ENT professional.
Most clinics require an appointment to assess your ear health and therefore, ear cleaning and wax removal.
Yes. Performed by a licensed practitioner, professional ear cleaning is safer than at-home methods like cotton buds.
It varies. Some people need annual cleanings, while others only require them if they have symptoms like ear blockage.
Coverage depends on your health plan. Some may cover audiology services.
Professional removal ensures safe extraction of wax without damaging your ear canal or eardrum.
Symptoms include ear fullness, decreased hearing, earache, or tinnitus.
Typically no. Patients may feel slight pressure but it is generally painless when done by an audiologist.
Common methods include irrigation, suction (microsuction), or manual curettage with specialised tools.
It’s best to consult a professional. At-home methods can push wax deeper or injure the ear if not done correctly.
Search online for clinics specialising in ear care or audiology and read patient reviews.
Yes. Many clinics offer same-day or emergency appointments for severe blockage.
Some pharmacies provide over-the-counter ear drops, but professional removal typically requires an audiologist or GP.
Often, yes. Removing excess wax can restore sound clarity if wax buildup was the cause of hearing muffling.
They are often used interchangeably. Ear cleaning is a broader term; ear wax removal is specifically about removing compacted wax.
An audiologist customises the hearing aid to match your hearing test results and ensures it fits comfortably.
Usually 60 minutes, including adjustments, testing, and instruction on care. An audiologist following best practice methods will generally take longer as it more procedures are followed to provide a precise and thorough fitting.
Yes. Your audiologist can show you various styles and recommend the best options for your hearing needs.
Often, yes. Follow-up appointments may be needed for fine-tuning and comfort adjustments.
You should experience better hearing clarity without discomfort or feedback (whistling). Your audiologist will test and verify this.
Prices vary widely, from basic models to advanced devices with additional features. They can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars each.
In Australia, eligible individuals can access subsidised hearing aids through programs like the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.
Brand, technology level, features (Bluetooth, rechargeable batteries), and the clinic’s service package can all affect cost.
Some clinics bundle these services with the device cost; others charge separately. Always clarify the pricing structure in advance.
Not necessarily. A “best” hearing aid depends on individual hearing needs, lifestyle, and budget, rather than just price alone.
Common types include Behind-The-Ear (BTE), In-The-Ear (ITE), In-The-Canal (ITC), and Completely-In-Canal (CIC).
Consider your degree of hearing loss, daily activities, cosmetic preferences, and budget. An audiologist can guide you.
Yes. Cleaning, battery replacements (or recharging), and periodic check-ups are necessary to keep them functioning well.
Some hearing aids offer built-in tinnitus masking features. Consult an audiologist for the best options.
Many last 3–7 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and technology updates.
A quick evaluation or screening to detect any signs of hearing loss or issues.
A “check” or “screening” is usually shorter and less detailed than a comprehensive audiometry test.
Adults should consider yearly or biannual checks, especially after age 50 or if exposed to loud noises regularly.
No. It’s a non-invasive process involving listening to tones at different volumes and frequencies.
Some clinics or community organizations offer free hearing screenings. Comprehensive tests may carry a fee unless covered by insurance or a government program.
It typically involves pure-tone audiometry, speech testing, and sometimes middle-ear function tests.
Yes. Hearing tests can be done for children, adults, and seniors to diagnose and track hearing health.
Avoid loud noises before your appointment, and share any pertinent health information with your audiologist.
If hearing loss is detected, the audiologist may recommend hearing aids or further medical evaluations.
Online tests can give a general idea but aren’t as accurate or comprehensive as a professional in-person exam.
An independent audiologist is not tied to a specific hearing aid manufacturer, allowing them to recommend the best product for the patient without brand bias.
You may receive more personalised care, impartial device recommendations, and a wider range of hearing aid options.
Pricing varies by clinic. Many independent practices offer competitive or similar pricing to larger chains.
Yes. They typically offer comprehensive hearing tests, hearing aid fittings, and follow-up care.
Check professional memberships (e.g., Audiology Australia), read reviews, and look for recognised qualifications.
Nothing is truly invisible! (Just ask the Emperor!) But hearing aids can be made to seem to avoid being visible due to their size and location inside the ear canal. When people talk about “invisible hearing aids”, they are often referring to “Invisible in the canal” style hearing aids, also known as IIC for short. They are very small, discreet hearing aids placed deep inside the ear canal, making them nearly unnoticeable.
People with mild to moderate hearing loss and suitably sized ear canals may benefit from invisible hearing aids.
Generally, yes. But comfort can vary by ear shape, size, and sensitivity. Other styes of hearing aid maybe more appropriate for certain hearing losses and ear anatomy. Proper fitting is crucial.
Many invisible styles have limited space for extra features. Some advanced models offer wireless connectivity, but options are more limited than larger aids. There are some discreet, rechargeable completely in the canal hearing aids that may be hidden completely if the ear canal is big enough and shaped in a suitable way.
Daily cleaning to remove ear wax and regular check-ups with your audiologist are vital for proper function. Moisture management by using drying kits and our in-store Redux system will also help with this.
Oticon is a global hearing aid manufacturer known for innovative technology and user-friendly designs.
They often include wireless connectivity, rechargeable batteries, noise cancellation, and tinnitus relief programs. Their advanced chip uses Deep Neural Network processing to assist people hearing in complex listening environments.
Yes. Many Oticon models have Bluetooth connectivity for both iOS and Android devices.
An audiologist can match your hearing test results and lifestyle needs to the appropriate Oticon device.
Yes. Most come with a manufacturer warranty covering repairs and defects, but coverage length varies by model and clinic.
Starkey is an American-based hearing aid manufacturer recognized for pioneering digital hearing aid technology and innovative features.
Starkey often includes AI-driven features, health tracking (like heart rate sensors), and advanced noise processing.
Many current Starkey models offer rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, reducing the need for disposable batteries. In 2024, Starkey were the first hearing aid to launch a model which had double the rechargeable battery life of any other hearing aid available.
Yes. Starkey provides wireless connectivity options with certain models, allowing streaming and remote adjustments via apps.
Regular cleaning, battery checks or recharging, and periodic audiologist visits are essential for performance and longevity.