The Australian Government’s Hearing Services Program continues to play a vital role in supporting Australians with hearing loss. Through the Voucher Scheme, eligible people — including pensioners, veterans, and NDIS participants — can access subsidised hearing assessments, hearing aids, fitting services, and follow-up support from accredited providers.
Vouchers issued under the program cover the cost of these services, making hearing care more accessible for people who might otherwise go without. This includes both new clients entering the program and returning clients who require ongoing support to maintain their hearing health.
“This is an essential program that has changed countless lives for the better,” said Jane Lee, National Manager of Health Programs for Deafness Forum Australia. “We are glad it exists, and proud to support its continued availability for the people who need it most.”
A Program in High Demand
Latest data from July 2024 to March 2025 shows that more than 672,000 people accessed services through the Voucher Scheme — an average of over 74,000 clients each month.
Over 102,000 new vouchers were issued in that time, with the highest uptake in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland. In addition, nearly 166,000 return vouchers were issued, showing strong ongoing engagement from existing clients.
More than 327,000 hearing devices — including hearing aids and assistive listening devices — were fitted, replaced, or issued as spares under the program during the reporting period.
T-Coils and Hearing Loops: A Vital Feature Protected for Now
Alongside emerging technologies like Bluetooth Auracast™, many Australians still depend on telecoil (T-coil) functionality in their hearing aids to connect with hearing loop systems in public places. These systems offer clear, direct sound in environments where background noise makes speech difficult to hear — like theatres, train stations, and houses of worship.
There is concern among hearing health advocates that some manufacturers are quietly phasing out T-coils. But a recent announcement from the Department of Health and Aged Care provides reassurance. The department has confirmed there will be no immediate changes to the minimum specifications for devices funded under the program. The review — led by the National Acoustic Laboratories — recognised the role of existing technologies like T-coils, and any future updates will be considered as part of the new Hearing Services Online Portal rollout in 2027.
“This is a strong sign that the government recognises the continued value of telecoils and hearing loops,” said Jane Lee. “It’s essential that technology transitions don’t leave behind people who rely on tried-and-true accessibility features. We applaud the Department for taking a measured, inclusive approach.”
Deafness Forum continues to advocate for a hybrid approach to hearing technology — one that supports future innovations while safeguarding current systems that people depend on every day.