Hearing Services Program

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What is the Hearing Services Program?

The Australian Government's Hearing Services Program provides subsidised hearing services and devices to eligible Australians with hearing loss. This program aims to improve the quality of life for those experiencing hearing difficulties by offering access to high-quality hearing aids and support services.

For pensioners, the program offers significant benefits, including fully subsidised hearing aids and ongoing support. Eligible pensioners can receive a voucher that covers the cost of hearing assessments, fitting, and maintenance of hearing devices. This ensures that those on a fixed income can access the necessary hearing care without financial strain.

Amplifon is an accredited service provider to the Australian Government Hearing Services Program (HSP).

The purpose of the program is to provide fully or partially subsidised hearing aids and services to Australians who are eligible under rules set out by the Department of Health. Through the program, the Department is working towards reducing the occurrence and impact of avoidable hearing loss by providing access to quality hearing services and devices for eligible participants.

Learn if you're eligible for the HSP

If you're still unsure, call us on 1800 704 189 to speak to our helpful team and we will check on your behalf what options are available to you to access hearing health services. Further eligibility checks can be completed on the Department of Health's Hearing Services Program website.

What is covered by the HSP?

The Hearing Services program (HSP) covers a range of services and devices to support eligible Australians with hearing loss. 
 
Key benefits include:
  • Hearing assessments: Comprehensive evaluations to determine the extent of hearing loss.
  • Hearing aids: Fully or partially subsidised hearing aids*, including fitting and maintenance.
  • Rehabilitation services: Support and training to help individuals adjust to their hearing aids and improve communication skills.
  • Device repairs and maintenance: Ongoing support to ensure hearing aids function effectively.
  • Assistive listening devices: Additional devices to aid hearing in specific situations, such as amplified telephones or TV listening systems.

Amplifon is a contracted service provider with the Department of Health’s Hearing Services Program and can help you access these services. The Government Hearing Services Program website lists the full support that eligible participants can receive. 

Visit a clinic to see if you're eligible for the program Find your local clinic

How do I know if I am eligible for the HSP?

To be eligible for the Hearing Services Program, generally you must meet one of the following criteria:

Generally, you must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or live on Norfolk Island. Eligibility extends to those aged 21 years or older who hold a Pensioner Concession Card, a Veteran Gold Card, or a Veteran White Card (for hearing-specific conditions).

Members of the Australian Defence Force and individuals referred by a Disability Employment Service are also eligible. Additionally, the program includes Community Service Obligations (CSO) for those under 26 years old, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years or over, and those living in remote areas. You can use the online eligibility checker to confirm your status and find out more about the application process.

Please note that a Seniors Health Card does not alone provide eligibility for the program.

Other requirements for the HSP

The Hearing Services Program requires new clients to provide a medical certificate as part of their application process. This certificate, completed by a doctor, confirms that the applicant has undergone a medical assessment to rule out any treatable medical conditions that might be causing their hearing loss. The medical certificate ensures that clients receive appropriate and safe hearing services tailored to their needs. Once the certificate is obtained, clients can apply for the program online or through a registered service provider.

Book an appointment to learn if you're eligible for the HSP Book a free appointment

How can I apply for the HSP?

To apply for the Hearing Services program (HSP), follow these steps:

  • Check your eligibility: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, such as being an Australian citizen or permanent resident, and holding a relevant concession card.
  • Apply through a provider: You can apply through a registered hearing service provider, such as Amplifon. Use the local provider directory to find a provider near you and contact them to assist with your application.
  • Apply online: Visit the Hearing Services Program website and complete the online application form. You will need to provide your full name, date of birth, eligibility number (e.g., Centrelink reference number), and contact details.
  • Apply by post or email: If you prefer, you can complete a paper application form and send it by post or email. This method may take 3 to 4 weeks to process.

Once your application is successful, you will receive a welcome pack with information about the program and a list of providers in your area. You can then book an appointment with your chosen provider to have your hearing assessed.

Hearing Services Program Portal

The Hearing Services Program (HSP) portal is an online platform provided by the Australian Government to facilitate the administration of hearing services. This portal allows service providers to:

  • Apply for hearing services vouchers: Assist clients in applying for and processing hearing services vouchers.
  • Manage client details: View and update client information, ensuring accurate records.
  • Transfer clients: Submit requests to transfer clients from one service provider to another with client consent.
  • Submit claims: Process manual claims and manage site location details, which also updates the interactive local hearing services provider directory.

The portal is designed to streamline the management of hearing services, making it easier for providers to deliver high-quality care to their clients.

More FAQs on the Hearing Services Program

For more information, visit the Hearing Services Program website

What services can I receive if I am eligible?

Some of the services you can receive include:

  • An Advanced Hearing Test to identify both the type and level of hearing loss 

  • Fully subsidised Hearing Aids and other devices to assist and improve communication and your hearing ability as well as the opportunity to access higher level technology if there is a clinical need and you wish to access it through partial subsidy

  • Comprehensive Assessment from our qualified Audiologists with an Audiology Report that includes interpretation of your results and recommendations. This may also be forwarded to your Medical Practitioner or GP if required

  • Counselling and support to help you and your family understand the impact of hearing loss on quality of life and strategies to assist you

  • Maintenance and Batteries (conditions apply)

Can I get a free hearing aid?

If you meet the eligibility criteria as determined by the Department of Health Hearing Services Program,  you can receive fully subsidised hearing aids. 

So yes, it is considered "free-to-the-client" because it is fully subsided by the Government program.

Amplifon is an accredited service provider with the Department of Health’s Hearing Services Program and can help you on checking your eligibility and accessing these fully subsidised services.

Already on the program with another provider?

Clients from other service providers regularly transfer to Amplifon for our care and our services. This is an easy process and comes at no cost to you.

The reasons for switching often include:

  • More convenient to come to one of our 300 clinics across Australia
  • Unhappy with the current hearing care provider’s service

The relocation is easy, and we can do it online or over the phone.

Call us today on 1800 704 189 and see our difference.

When can I apply for the Hearing Services Program?

You can apply for the Hearing Services Program at any time if you meet the eligibility criteria. The program is open year-round, and you can start the application process through a registered service provider or online.

How much is the Australian government hearing aid subsidy?

The Australian government provides subsidies for hearing aids through the Hearing Services Program*. Eligible individuals can receive fully subsidised hearing aids at no cost or partially subsidised devices where they cover the remaining cost. The Voucher covers up to $1200 in services.

*Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program

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