For many veterans, the effects of service don’t stop when the uniform comes off.
In fact, one of the most common, and often overlooked, conditions affecting former military personnel is hearing loss. Whether from loud machinery, weapons training, aircraft, or combat exposure, veterans are at higher risk of hearing damage than most.
If you’ve served in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), understanding veterans’ hearing loss and the help available to you is an important step toward better hearing and quality of life.
In this blog, we’ll explain how hearing loss affects veterans, what support is available, and how Audience Hearing can assist with specialised hearing services for veterans.
Why Is Hearing Loss Common in Veterans?
Some of the most common causes of hearing loss in veterans include:
- Long-Term Exposure to Loud Noise
- Military service often involves high-level noise exposure. Think:
- Gunfire and explosives
- Jet engines or helicopter blades
- Loud vehicles and machinery
- Naval equipment
Even with hearing protection, repeated exposure can gradually damage the sensitive hair cells in your inner ear.
- Sudden Acoustic Trauma
Sometimes hearing loss happens in an instant. A single loud explosion or blast can cause acoustic trauma, a sudden, permanent loss of hearing or ringing in the ears (tinnitus).
This kind of hearing damage may not be obvious at first, but it can develop into long-term issues that impact daily life, relationships, and mental health.
Signs of Hearing Loss in Veterans
Veterans often delay seeking help for hearing problems. You might think it’s just “part of getting older,” but it’s worth paying attention to the signs if you are:
- Struggling to hear in noisy places (like pubs or busy shops)
- Turning the TV or radio up louder than others prefer
- Feeling isolated or avoiding conversations
- Hearing ringing, buzzing, or whistling in the ears (tinnitus)
If any of this sounds familiar, it might be time to consider a hearing check.
Hearing Loss and Veterans’ Disability Support
If you’re a veteran experiencing hearing loss, you may be eligible for support under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program (HSP). This program is designed to make hearing care more accessible for eligible Australian citizens and veterans who hold a DVA Gold Card or a DVA White Card (with hearing loss accepted as a service-related condition).
The Hearing Services Program may provide access to:
- Free* hearing assessments by qualified audiologists
- Fully or partially subsidised hearing aids
- Ongoing hearing aid maintenance and battery supply
- Hearing rehabilitation and support services
At Audience Hearing, we are accredited providers under the HSP. We can help you navigate your eligibility, apply for services, and ensure you receive the right hearing solution for your needs.
*Note: Free hearing assessments and hearing devices under the HSP require prior approval. Eligibility criteria and clinical needs will determine the level of support provided.
Understanding Your DVA Card
Don’t have a DVA card just yet? You can apply for a Veteran Gold or White card here to help get you the treatment you need.
The level of support you receive depends on your DVA eligibility and whether your hearing loss is accepted as service-related. At Audience Hearing, our team can guide you through the process and provide the right clinical documentation for your claim.
How Hearing Services for Veterans Work
At Audience Hearing, we provide a welcoming and professional environment for veterans. Here’s what you can expect:
1. A Simple Hearing Test
Your journey starts with a full hearing assessment. This includes:
- A look inside your ears
- A hearing test (audiometry) using headphones and sound tones
- A discussion about your lifestyle and hearing concerns
We explain the results and help you discuss and decide on your options.
2. Help With DVA Paperwork
If your hearing loss is linked to your service, we can assist with completing the forms and reports needed to access DVA-funded support. We work alongside you and your GP to make the process easier.
3. Personalised Treatment Options
We offer a range of treatment solutions for veterans’ hearing loss, including:
- Custom-fitted hearing aids
- Tinnitus management strategies
- Assistive listening devices for phones and TVs
- Ongoing check-ups and support
Our care is personalised, so whether you need help adjusting to a new hearing aid or managing daily hearing challenges, we’re here for you.
Tinnitus: Another Common Issue for Veterans
Along with hearing loss, many veterans experience tinnitus, a constant or intermittent sound in the ears that isn’t caused by an outside source. It might be a:
- Ringing
- Buzzing
- Hissing
- Whooshing sound
For some, it’s mild and manageable. For others, it can interfere with sleep, focus, and mental well-being. If you’re a veteran living with tinnitus, it’s important to know that treatment and support are available.
Audience Hearing offers tinnitus assessments and evidence-based therapies to help you manage the condition. These might include sound therapy, relaxation strategies, or hearing aids with built-in tinnitus features.
Support from a Team Who Understands
At Audience Hearing, we value the service and sacrifice of Australia’s veterans. Our team understands the unique hearing challenges faced by former ADF members and takes a respectful, down-to-earth approach to care.
If you’ve served in the military and suspect hearing loss or tinnitus is affecting your life, don’t wait. Help is available, and support through the DVA can cover much of the cost.
Better hearing starts with a simple test. And from there, the right treatment can help you reconnect with the world around you.
Book Your Veterans Hearing Appointment Today
Ready to take the first step? At Audience Hearing, we offer trusted hearing services for veterans, including testing, treatment, and support with DVA claims. We’re here to listen and help.
Call us or book an appointment online to get the care you deserve today.
