Hearing tests

Hearing tests in Rockhampton

A hearing test at CQ Audiology measures how well you hear soft sounds and spoken words, one ear at a time, in a quiet booth. A standard adult assessment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and is painless. Your audiologist explains the results straight away.

What happens during a hearing test?

Your audiologist starts with a short chat about your hearing and any concerns, then looks in your ears. Depending on what you need, the assessment can include:

• Pure-tone audiometry: you wear headphones and press a button when you hear soft tones at different pitches.
• Speech testing: you listen to words and repeat them back, which shows how well you understand speech and not only whether you detect sound.
• Middle ear testing (tympanometry): a quick check of how well your eardrum and middle ear are working.

Your results are shown on an audiogram, a chart of the softest sounds you can hear at each pitch. Your audiologist walks you through it and explains what the options are. Our guide to understanding your hearing test results shows how to read one.

How long does a hearing test take?

A full diagnostic assessment usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on which tests you need. A first appointment is longer than a review, and testing speech in noise adds time. See how long a hearing test takes for the detail.

Who is a hearing test for?

A hearing test suits anyone who wants to know where their hearing stands, and it is especially worth booking if you:

• find it harder to follow conversations, especially in busy places
• often ask people to repeat themselves
• turn the TV or phone volume up higher than others around you
• work or spend time in noisy environments
• have not had your hearing checked for a while

If your hearing changes suddenly, or you have ear pain, discharge or dizziness, contact your GP urgently or go to an emergency department the same day. Do not wait for a hearing test appointment.

Not sure yet?

If you would like a first look before booking, try our hearing self-check questions, which take about two minutes. It is indicative only and not a diagnosis. A hearing test with an audiologist is the way to find out where your hearing stands.

How do I prepare for a hearing test?

Eat, drink and take your usual medications as normal unless your GP has advised otherwise, and arrive a few minutes early to complete the paperwork. Our guide on what to do before a hearing test covers the rest. Bring a list of any questions, and a family member or friend if you would like another set of ears in the room.

Where can I have a hearing test?

Our main clinic is in the City Centre Plaza at 24 Fitzroy Street, Rockhampton. We also run visiting clinics in Yeppoon, Emerald, Biloela, Blackwater, Blackall, Barcaldine and Longreach. Visiting days vary, so please phone (07) 4848 6528 to confirm the next clinic before you travel. See all of our service areas to find your nearest site.

If you are a pensioner or concession card holder, ask us about the Hearing Services Program when you book. Eligibility is assessed individually, and conditions apply under the Australian Government Hearing Services Program.

If your test shows a hearing change, the next step is talking through your options with your audiologist, which can include hearing aid solutions where they suit you.

Sources: Hearing Australia, What to expect at our hearing appointments; Hearing Australia, FAQs. Information current October 2026 and general in nature.