For many older Australians, hearing loss is a daily challenge. Conversations can feel exhausting, social gatherings may become isolating, and even everyday sounds like the doorbell or phone can go unnoticed.
Luckily, the Australian government offers different benefits that you may take advantage of, like hearing services. If you’re familiar with it, you might wonder:
“What exactly is covered under the Veterans and Pensioners Hearing Solutions scheme, more formally known as the Hearing Services Program (HSP)?”
Do you also think you’re qualified for these services?
Let’s look at each of them better and understand each service offered, how eligibility works, and what extra support veterans and pensioners may receive.
What Is the Hearing Services Program (HSP)?
The Hearing Services Program (HSP) is run by the Department of Health and Aged Care, which helps Australians with hearing concerns get the quality care and devices they need.
The HSP can be redeemed through the HSP voucher scheme, where eligible people can access subsidised hearing tests, hearing aids, maintenance, and follow-up support. The program also works with Community Service Obligations (CSO), which provide extra services for people in special groups, such as children, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, or those living in remote areas.
Veterans may also qualify for even more support through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) hearing services, which add extra coverage for hearing aids, accessories, and tinnitus management.
Who Is Eligible for the Hearing Services Program?
Not everyone is eligible for the Hearing Services Program, but it’s important to check if you qualify for a voucher before paying full price in the clinic or hospital.
Also, if you’re already a pensioner or veteran, it’s best to know more about whether you’re eligible for the HSP. According to the Australian Government Hearing Services Program eligibility criteria, here are some considerations to qualify for the program:
- You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident (including Norfolk Island residents).
- You must be 21 years or older.
- You must hold one of the following:
- A Pensioner Concession Card (or be the spouse of a cardholder)
- A DVA Gold Card (all conditions covered)
- A DVA White Card where hearing loss or tinnitus is an accepted condition
- A membership in the Australian Defence Force (under certain conditions)
- A referral from a Disability Employment Services provider
If you don’t meet these exact requirements, you may still qualify through the CSO program, which covers people with specialist needs or limited access to hearing care.
For veterans, eligibility usually extends further, with DVA programs offering additional devices and support not always included in the general HSP voucher scheme.
Services Covered Under the HSP
So, what does the Australian government’s Hearing Services Program for pensioners and veterans actually provide? Here are some main services you can avail of using HSP.
1. Hearing Assessment and Diagnostic Testing
Under the HSP, eligible clients are entitled to a comprehensive diagnostic assessment, which checks:
- How well you hear sounds at different pitches
- How clearly you understand speech
- Whether you have conditions like tinnitus
This initial test determines whether you need a hearing aid or other treatment. The program also covers annual reviews to monitor your hearing and adjust devices if needed.
2. Hearing Aids and Subsidised Devices
For pensioners and veterans, one of the biggest benefits of the HSP is access to subsidised hearing aids.
- There are fully subsidised devices, meaning you pay nothing if you choose from the approved list.
- If you’d like extra features, like advanced noise-cancelling, rechargeable batteries, or Bluetooth streaming, you may choose a “top-up” device, where you pay the difference in cost.
3. Fitting, Tuning, and Rehabilitation Support
A hearing aid is only helpful if it’s fitted correctly to your ears. That’s why the HSP also covers:
- Professional fitting and programming of your device to match your hearing profile
- Tuning sessions, where adjustments are made so the device feels comfortable and works well in different environments
- Rehabilitation and training, such as advice on communication strategies, learning how to use your hearing aid, and practising with assistive listening technology
This support ensures you don’t just receive a device, but also know how to maximise its potential.
4. Maintenance, Repairs, and Batteries
Hearing aids also need regular care to keep working properly. Under the HSP, you can access:
- Free or subsidised batteries
- Repairs for your hearing aids, including minor parts replacement (like tubing or domes)
- Maintenance agreements, often for a small annual fee, which can cover ongoing servicing and consumables at no extra cost
This ongoing support gives peace of mind that your devices will keep working as long as you need them.
5. Assistive Listening Devices (ALDs)
For some veterans and pensioners, a standard hearing aid does not make the cut. That’s where assistive listening devices (ALDs) come in.
These extra tools are often covered under DVA and HSP programs and may include:
- TV listening systems (so you can hear clearly without turning the volume up too high)
- Wireless microphones or FM systems (useful in noisy places or meetings)
- Telephone amplifiers
- Visual alerts (doorbells, alarms, or phone alerts that flash instead of ring)
ALDs can make a huge difference to daily life, especially for veterans with more complex hearing needs.
6. Tinnitus Management
Many veterans experience tinnitus (ringing or buzzing in the ears), often linked to noise exposure during service.
Under DVA hearing services, veterans can access:
- Devices with tinnitus-masking features
- Counselling and coping strategies
- Sound therapy programs
This support can help reduce the frustration and stress caused by tinnitus.
7. Specialist Services and Cochlear Implants
For people with severe or profound hearing loss, standard hearing aids may not be enough. In these cases:
- Cochlear implants may be considered, often in combination with Medicare funding and DVA support.
- Under Community Service Obligations, people with complex needs (such as dual sensory loss or communication difficulties) can receive extra specialised care.
This ensures that even those with the most severe hearing loss can still access meaningful hearing solutions.
Your Hearing Health Matters
For veterans and pensioners who need access to hearing services, the Australian government has provided benefits for you to take advantage of, including the Hearing Services Program. Check your availability to avail these services to help you take care of your hearing health.
If you’re unsure about your hearing services program eligibility, the best step is to speak with an accredited provider who can guide you through the process. Audience Hearing is here to lend a helping hand to you as you check your eligibility and seek audiological guidance.
Consult with our audiologists to know more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I apply for the Hearing Services Program?
You can apply online through the HSP portal, or through Audience Hearing, as we are an accredited hearing services provider to help you with the application.
2. Do veterans get more support than pensioners?
Yes. Veterans, particularly those with DVA Gold or White Cards, may receive additional devices and services such as assistive listening devices and tinnitus programs.
3. Are all hearing aids free under the program?
No. Many hearing aids are fully subsidised, but if you want premium features, you may need to pay a “top-up” fee.
4. Can I change providers once I’m in the program?
Yes. You’re free to choose or change your accredited hearing services provider at any time.
5. How often can I get new hearing aids?
Generally, hearing aids can be replaced every five years, unless significant changes in your hearing make an earlier replacement clinically necessary.
6. Is the program only for older Australians?
No. While most users are seniors, younger people can also qualify if they meet certain eligibility requirements, such as having a DVA card or referral from a disability employment service.
