Are hearing aids free for pensioners in Australia?

The Australian Government can fully fund hearing aids for eligible voucher-holders under the Hearing Services Program, from an approved device list. CQ Audiology does not provide fully subsidised devices free. The cost is met by the Australian Government, and conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program. Higher-specification devices are available for a top up fee that you pay. Eligibility generally includes holding a Pensioner Concession Card or a DVA card, and is assessed individually. An audiologist at CQ Audiology can check your eligibility and explain exactly what is covered.

What does "free hearing aids for pensioners" actually mean?

The Hearing Services Program does not mean every hearing aid is free. Eligible clients can choose a fully subsidised device from an approved list, paid for by the Australian Government. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program. You can also opt for a higher-specification device and pay only the difference. This difference is known as a top up, and any gap fee is set by the provider. The assessment, fitting and many follow-up services are also covered by the program for eligible clients.

Fully subsidised devices versus a top up

A fully subsidised device is paid for by the Australian Government under the program, not by CQ Audiology. A top up applies only if you choose a higher-specification device. The gap fee is the difference you pay. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.

Who is eligible for the Hearing Services Program?

Most eligible pensioners and veterans qualify through the Voucher Scheme. You typically qualify if you hold a Pensioner Concession Card (a pension card) or a Department of Veterans' Affairs card. Eligibility is assessed individually. Other pathways exist for people with hearing loss and more complex needs. For the full eligibility criteria, including the spouse and dependant pathways, see our Hearing Services Program page. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program. An audiologist at CQ Audiology can also check your eligibility directly.

What is not covered by the Hearing Services Program?

Devices outside the approved list are paid by the client. So are premium features beyond what a top up covers. Eligibility does not automatically apply to everyone over pension age. It depends on holding a qualifying card and meeting other criteria. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.

How do you check your eligibility with an audiologist?

An audiologist at CQ Audiology can help you check your eligibility. They can explain the approved device options and any applicable top up or gap fee, before you commit to anything. Conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.

For more information, visit the Hearing Services Program (hearingservices.gov.au) (opens in a new tab).

Source: Australian Government Department of Health, Disability and Ageing (Hearing Services Program). Information current July 2026 and general in nature.