Better health and ageing for all Australians

How can the program help me?

Under 26 Years

Under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program (the Program) young Australians under the age of 21 years and young adults aged between 21 to 25 years (inclusive) are eligible for a range of hearing services.

Services for these clients are covered under the Community Service Obligations (CSO) component of the Program and are provided by Australian Hearing. Australian Hearing is funded by the Australian Government to provide CSO services to different groups of eligible Australians.


Who is eligible?

All children and young Australians under the age of 21 years with a confirmed hearing loss are eligible to receive services under the CSO component of the Program.

If you are a young adult aged between 21 to 25 years (inclusive) (and have not yet had their 26th birthday) are also eligible to receive hearing services as part of the CSO component of the Program.

Access to hearing services and support for young adults will enable them to continue to study, train and/or establish their careers.

How do I apply for services?

Young adults must be eligible under the Program in order to receive hearing services.

What services can I receive?

As a client of the Program you can expect to receive high quality hearing services that are tailored for you. You will be able to access ongoing hearing assessments, as well as hearing aids and devices specific to your hearing need. For a small fee, you can choose to enter into an annual maintenance agreement which will support your hearing device for maintenance and repairs, as well as a supply of batteries, for a period of 12 months.

Clients with Cochlear Implants can access speech processor upgrades and replacements as well as minor maintenance to existing speech processors. These are only available to clients of Australian Hearing as Cochlear Implants are not supported through other Contracted Service Providers.

Where can I receive services?

Australian Hearing is funded by the Government to provide CSO services to eligible clients. Other hearing practitioners may not be able to supply the level of hearing services or hearing devices that may be accessible under the CSO through Australian Hearing. As a client of Program, you can choose which hearing practitioner you prefer.

What happens when I lose eligibility?

Young adults loose eligibility for hearing services under the CSO when they turn 26 years of age, unless other eligibility criteria apply. It is suggested you discuss your eligibility with your hearing practitioner leading up to this time so you may make necessary arrangements to continue your hearing care needs. Alternately, you can discuss your eligibility with the Office. You will continue to receive new ear moulds and minor maintenance for your supplied hearing device for a further five years, however major repairs or device replacement are not covered.

I am not eligible, what can I do?

If you are not eligible for hearing services under the Program after turning 26 years of age, all costs of hearing aids and device replacements become your responsibility. As a private client you can attend a hearing practitioner of your choice.

Hearing aid banks exist in each state and territory (except Western Australia) and provide reconditioned hearing devices to many people. They generally provide services for clients who have lost eligibility for the Program or who may have financial difficulty in meeting the cost of a privately provided hearing device.

Private health insurance may offer some rebate for privately purchased hearing devices. Each insurer will have different requirements and it is important to check what may be covered under your policy.

It is also suggested that you seek advice regarding insurance for any privately purchased hearing devices.

For more information please contact:
    • Australian Hearing on 131 797 or
    • the Office Client contact line 1800 500 726

Read more: I am not eligible – where else can I get help?
Read more: Maintenance Agreement

More information: Hearing Services Program Contacts

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