For many Australians, the cost of hearing aids is a genuine concern. A quality, professionally fitted device can represent a significant outlay — and it's one of the reasons some people put off getting help with their hearing for longer than they should.
What many eligible Australians don't realise is that a government program exists specifically to address this. The Australian Government Hearing Services Program (often referred to simply as the Hearing Services Program) subsidises hearing assessments and, where appropriate, hearing aids for people who meet eligibility criteria. It's been quietly helping eligible pensioners and veterans for decades.
Here's a plain-English guide to how it works.
What Is the Hearing Services Program?
The Hearing Services Program is funded by the Australian Government and administered through the Department of Health and Aged Care. It provides eligible Australians with access to:
Comprehensive hearing assessments (funded by the Australian Government for eligible clients)
Hearing aids selected from an approved range, either fully funded by the program or with an optional top-up for premium devices
Ongoing maintenance, repairs, and replacement batteries for supplied devices
Follow-up appointments and support from an accredited hearing services provider
The program operates through a network of accredited providers across Australia — including independent audiology clinics that have chosen to participate. Hearing Help is an accredited provider under the Hearing Services Program.
Who Is Eligible?
The program has specific eligibility criteria. As of 2026, you may be eligible if you:
Hold a current Pensioner Concession Card (issued by Services Australia or the Department of Veterans' Affairs)
Receive the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, or certain other Centrelink payments that come with a Pensioner Concession Card
Hold a Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) Gold Card or a DVA White Card where hearing conditions are accepted
Are 21 years of age or older (younger Australians are generally supported through the separate Community Service Obligations pathway delivered by Hearing Australia)
There are some additional criteria and categories — for instance, people receiving Sickness Allowance or certain other payments may also be eligible. The most reliable way to confirm your eligibility is to speak with a registered provider or check the Department of Health's official resources.
Please note: eligibility criteria can change, and the information above reflects general program rules. Always confirm your current eligibility directly with a provider or through the Hearing Services Program website.
What Does the Program Actually Cover?
If you're eligible and enrolled, the program covers:
Hearing assessment. A comprehensive assessment by a qualified audiologist, at no cost to you. This establishes whether you have hearing loss, the type and degree of the loss, and what intervention may be appropriate.
Hearing aids (subsidised range). The program funds a range of hearing aids for eligible clients. These are not budget devices — they are contemporary digital aids supplied through the program's approved schedule. Your audiologist will recommend devices from this range that suit your hearing profile.
Optional top-up for premium devices. If you prefer a device with features beyond those in the subsidised range — such as advanced Bluetooth streaming, rechargeable batteries, or specific brand preferences — you can choose to pay a top-up fee to access those models. This is entirely optional.
Batteries and consumables. If your device uses replaceable batteries, these are provided as part of the program for subsidised devices.
Maintenance and repair. Servicing, cleaning, and minor repairs for program-supplied devices are covered during the program period.
Follow-up appointments. You're entitled to ongoing appointments with your provider for adjustments and support — not just a one-off fitting.
How Does the Voucher System Work?
The Hearing Services Program uses a voucher-based system. Once your eligibility is confirmed and you're enrolled, you receive a client number that is linked to the program. Your audiologist can look up your entitlements using this number.
You do not literally receive a paper voucher to present — the system is managed electronically between the provider and the government. What matters is that your eligibility is confirmed before your appointment.
What About DVA Clients?
Veterans and war widows/widowers holding a DVA Gold Card generally have comprehensive coverage for hearing services, including assessment and devices. Coverage under a DVA White Card depends on whether the relevant conditions have been accepted by DVA.
DVA clients are encouraged to bring their card to their appointment. The claiming process is handled directly between the clinic and DVA.
How to Check Your Eligibility
The simplest steps are:
1. Look at your Centrelink or DVA card. If you hold a Pensioner Concession Card, there is a good chance you are eligible — though not every card type qualifies, so confirmation is important. 2. Contact the Hearing Services Program directly. The program has a helpline and online resources through the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care website. 3. Ask a registered provider. Any accredited provider under the program, including Hearing Help, can help you check your eligibility when you book an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral from my GP to access the program? Generally, no — you can contact an accredited provider directly. However, if your GP has concerns about your hearing, a referral can be a helpful starting point.
Can I choose my own clinic under the program? Yes. As long as the clinic is an accredited provider under the Hearing Services Program, you can choose where you receive your services. You are not locked into a specific provider.
How often can I access new hearing aids through the program? The program has schedules for replacement. Generally, clients may access new devices every five years, though this can vary depending on circumstances such as device loss or significant change in hearing. Your provider can explain what applies to your situation.
What if my hearing changes after I've been fitted? Follow-up appointments are part of the program, and adjustments to your devices are covered. If your hearing changes significantly, your audiologist can reassess and adjust your management plan accordingly.
Getting Started on the Redcliffe Peninsula
If you think you may be eligible for the Hearing Services Program and you're based on the Redcliffe Peninsula or in the Moreton Bay area, we'd be glad to help you take the next step. Hearing Help is an accredited provider, and our team can walk you through the eligibility check as part of your initial appointment. Give us a call or reach out through our website to find out more.