Government-funded hearing care

You may be eligible through the Australian Government Hearing Services Program if you hold a Pensioner Concession Card, Veteran Gold Card, or a Veteran White Card for hearing-related conditions. Eligibility can also extend to a spouse or de facto partner aged 26 or over. We can help you check what applies before your appointment.

Not by itself. A Commonwealth Seniors Health Card does not automatically provide eligibility for the Hearing Services Program. If you are unsure about your circumstances, contact us and we can help point you in the right direction.

For eligible clients, the program can contribute to hearing assessments, hearing-device fitting, follow-up appointments, annual reviews, rehabilitation support and device maintenance. The exact support available depends on your eligibility, clinical needs and the device selected.

Every eligible client who needs hearing aids is offered a choice of fully subsidised devices at no cost. Partially subsidised devices are also available if you choose to pay a contribution. We will explain all costs, inclusions and alternatives clearly before you make a decision. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program

Yes. Eligible DVA Gold Card holders and White Card holders with hearing-related eligibility can access hearing services through the program. We will explain the process, help with the necessary steps and discuss the most suitable options for you.

Ongoing care can include follow-up appointments, adjustments, annual reviews, advice, cleaning and maintenance support. The aim is to help your hearing aids remain comfortable, reliable and useful in the real situations that matter to you.

Yes. You can move to another Hearing Services Program provider at any time. With your consent, your new provider requests your record through the program, and your previous provider must send it within 7 business days. Bring your hearing

aids, any paperwork and your questions.

Yes. We work with clients who wear most major hearing-aid brands. We can assess the fit, settings, comfort and performance of your current devices, then advise whether adjustment, maintenance, repair or a different solution may help.

Absolutely. Difficulty hearing in noise, unclear speech, whistling, discomfort, unreliable sound or trouble using the controls can often be investigated. We will take the time to understand the issue and recommend practical next steps.

Yes. Many clients find it helpful to bring a partner, adult child, friend or carer. They can help describe everyday listening situations, understand the recommendations and support you after the appointment.

The Signia Active Mini IX offer may be available to eligible clients, subject to your hearing needs, funding eligibility and current offer terms. We will explain whether it is suitable for you and any contribution, if applicable, before you decide. Fully-subsidised hearing aids are also available to eligible clients at no cost, and we will always offer you that choice first.

Yes. Earwax can contribute to blocked ears, muffled hearing and hearing-aid difficulties. Earwax removal is not included under the Hearing Services Program, so we will explain any applicable cost or offer before treatment.

No referral is usually needed to book a hearing assessment or discuss hearing-aid support. If your results indicate that medical review is appropriate, we will explain why and help guide the next step.

We begin by discussing your hearing, health history and the situations you find difficult. Your audiologist will assess your hearing, explain the results in plain language and talk through suitable options. There is no pressure to proceed with hearing aids on the day.

For many people, an annual review is a sensible way to check that hearing levels, device settings and everyday needs are still being met. Contact us earlier if your hearing changes, your devices become uncomfortable or you are having difficulties.

We can assess your hearing and discuss how tinnitus may be affecting you. Tinnitus assessment and treatment are not generally covered through the Hearing Services Program, but we will explain appropriate options and any costs before proceeding.

Essence Audiology provides local hearing care across Wagga Wagga, Albury, Wodonga, Cobram, Corowa and Corryong. Choose your preferred location when you book, and we will help arrange the most suitable appointment.

Call Essence Audiology, request a callback, or complete the enquiry form. Let us know if you have a Pensioner Concession Card, DVA card, existing hearing aids or questions about funding, and we will help you prepare for your appointment.