What is the difference between an audiologist and an audiometrist?

Audiologists are university-qualified professionals, generally to Masters level. They diagnose and manage complex hearing and balance disorders across all ages. Audiometrists are trained technicians. They focus on hearing testing and fitting hearing aids, generally for adults with more straightforward hearing loss. Both play valuable roles in hearing care.

Qualifications and scope of practice

Audiologists complete a university degree, typically a Masters degree. It covers the diagnosis and management of hearing and balance disorders across the full range of complexity. This includes all age groups, from infants to people with additional needs.

Audiometrists complete a shorter, more focused training program. It centres on hearing testing and hearing aid fitting. This generally suits straightforward adult hearing loss.

Neither role is a medical doctor; both work alongside GPs and ENT specialists when medical treatment is needed.

What does an audiologist do, and are they a doctor?

An audiologist assesses, diagnoses and manages hearing and balance problems, fits and tunes hearing aids, removes ear wax, and helps with tinnitus. In Australia they hold a university degree and professional accreditation but are not medical doctors. They work alongside GPs and ENT specialists, often via referral, when a medical rather than audiological issue needs treatment.

Do both need to be registered or accredited to diagnose hearing loss?

Yes. Both audiologists and audiometrists in Australia work within recognised professional bodies and accreditation frameworks for their respective scope of practice. Checking a clinician's qualifications and professional membership is a reasonable step if you are choosing a provider for the first time.

When does the audiologist vs audiometrist distinction matter?

For most straightforward adult hearing loss and hearing aid fitting, either professional may be appropriate. An audiologist's broader scope and training are generally the better fit in more complex cases. These include children, complex hearing loss, balance (vestibular) concerns, or a suspected underlying medical cause.

Who should you see for ear pain, discharge or infection?

Neither an audiologist nor an audiometrist is a medical doctor. For ear pain, discharge or a suspected infection, see your GP or another medical professional first. Once any medical issue is treated, an audiologist can assess your hearing and discuss any ongoing needs.

For more information, visit Healthdirect (healthdirect.gov.au) (opens in a new tab).

Sources: Healthdirect; Audiology Australia. Information current July 2026 and general in nature.