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Are Hearing Aids Covered by Medicare?
Are Hearing Aids Covered by Medicare?
Written by
Tina Sendin
Edited by
Andrew Kemp
Reviewed by
Andres GutierrezCompare Health Insurance Policies
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What are hearing aids?
Long story short
Medicare doesn’t cover hearing aids
But government help is available for eligible Aussies through the Hearing Services Program (HSP) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Private health insurance could help
An extras policy can provide benefits towards the cost of purchasing or repairing new hearing devices or getting audiologist consultations.
Costs could vary wildly depending on different factors
Hearing aids can cost anywhere from around $1,500 to over $6,000 based on things like features, technology, and type of device.
Private health insurance waiting periods apply
You’ll typically have to serve a 12-month waiting period or sometimes longer before you can claim on a new or upgraded extras policy for hearing aids.
What are hearing aids?
A hearing aid is more than just a volume knob for the world. It’s an electronic device designed to amplify sound and improve hearing for people of all ages.
The basic setup includes a microphone to pick up sound, an amplifier to make it louder, and a tiny speaker to deliver it to your ear, and a battery to power it all.
What are the different types of hearing aids?
There’s a wide range of hearing aids that suit different hearing issues. They come in different sizes, appearance, extent of hearing loss, your lifestyle and budget.
Behind-the-ear (BTE)
These hearing aids rest comfortably behind your ear. Some models have a sound processor behind the ear that connects to a receiver in the ear canal, while others use a tube that connects directly to an ear mould or ear tip.
The larger-sized BTE models are often more powerful and used by those with severe hearing loss.
In-the-ear (ITE)
ITE hearing aids are made to fit your ear’s unique contours. They come in different sizes and ease of use: completely inside the ear canal (smallest and trickiest to handle), those that sit partly in the ear canal and partly in the outer ear, and those that rest in the outer ear (biggest and easiest to handle).
ITE aids are less visible than BTE models, but the smaller versions may be less powerful and more prone to issues from earwax or moisture.
Implantable devices
For those with more profound hearing loss or those who can’t use traditional hearing aids, implantable options are available:
- Cochlear implants: Used for severe hearing loss, they send sound signals directly to the hearing nerve.
- Bone conduction implants: These devices transmit sound through the bones of the skull to the inner ear.
How much do hearing aids cost?
A standard hearing aid might start at around $1,500, while a premium model with the latest tech can cost over $6,000, without government subsidies.1Specsavers – Hearing aid range and prices
That said, finding the price of the right hearing aid for is a bit like asking ‘how long is a piece of string?’ – it depends on several factors, including:
- Technology level: Basic models simply make sounds louder, while high-end ones help you hear speech more clearly, reduce background noise, and automatically adjust to your environment.
- Features: Extras like Bluetooth streaming, tinnitus masking, or rechargeable batteries can bump up the price.
- Style: In‑the‑ear devices are small and discreet, while behind‑the‑ear models often pack more power and features.
- Brand and warranty: Different brands price their devices differently, and the length of the warranty or included service package can affect the overall value.
- Aftercare: You’re not just buying the device – you’re also paying for fittings, adjustments, and ongoing support.
- Where you buy them: Prices and product range can vary between independent audiology clinics and big retail chains. You could also look at it from a value perspective. Independent audiologists could offer a wider range of brands and models while also offering more in-depth services and follow-up care.
Let’s have a look at the prices of some brands based on the model and technology levels (as of February 2025):
Sample prices of hearing aids in Australia
| Brand | Technology level / range | Price per pair | Price per pair including HSP subsidy |
| Advance | Standard | $1,495 | $0 |
| Advance | Plus | $2,495 | $895 |
| Advance | Premium | $2,995 | $1,395 |
| Signia | Super (5IX & 5AX) | $4,495 | $2,895 |
| Resound | Elite (Vivia 9 – Rechargeable + AI) | $6,495 | $4,895 |
Source: Specsavers – Hearing aid range and prices
An extras policy won’t eliminate the cost, but it can make a top-tier device a little easier on the wallet.
Does Medicare cover the cost of hearing aids?
If you’re wondering whether Medicare covers the cost of hearing aids, the answer – unfortunately – is no. You can’t get a Medicare rebate for purchasing or fitting hearing aids.
However, there are government funding options available for eligible people through the Hearing Services Program (HSP) and the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
Hearing Services Program (HSP)
The Australian Department of Health’s Hearing Services Program (HSP) allows many Aussies to access hearing health services and devices without paying for their full costs.
The HSP covers various hearing care services – like hearing assessment, device fitting and maintenance, and extra rehabilitation. For many, this means access to a fully subsidised device.
However, if you want a device with extra bells-and-whistles – say, wireless connectivity, more channels, or additional automated features – then you might have to choose a partially subsidised device and pay the difference yourself. However, this could mean your wallet copping from a hefty gap.
This is where private health insurance could come in.
Eligibility under the HSP
Australian citizens or permanent residents can use the HSP’s voucher scheme or CSO programs, with each path having its own eligibility criteria.
Voucher scheme:
- Those who hold a Pensioner Concession Card, Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) gold card holders (or white card for hearing loss).
- Members of the Australian Defence Force.
- Those referred through an Inclusive Employment Services provider.
Community Service Obligations (CSO):
- Children and young people who are under 26.
- Eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are aged 50 or older.
- Adults who can’t access mainstream services, like those who live in remote areas or need specialist support.
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)
The NDIS provides additional hearing supports for those that are eligible, especially if you’re not eligible for the HSP or your needs go beyond its scope.
You can’t get the same support from both programs, but they can work together. In some case, the NDIS will top up whatever the HSP doesn’t cover – like specialised assistive technology or early childhood support.
Eligibility under the NDIS
- Under 7: Children with confirmed hearing loss may be able to access early intervention support not provided by the HSP.
- 7 to 25: The NDIS may fund additional support the HSP doesn’t provide.
- 26 to 64: The NDIS may fund additional support not provided by the HSP, whether you’re an existing NDIS participant and not. For those with an HSP voucher, you can use until it until runs out before seeking support under your NDIS plan.
- 65 and over: The NDIS may provide you additional support that the HSP does not, but only if you’re an existing participant. New applications are closed to this age bracket.
Does private health insurance cover the cost of hearing aids?
Yes, private health insurance can help soften the financial blow of purchasing hearing aids. Coverage for hearing aids is found under extras cover. You’ll typically need a top-tier extras policy – but some mid-level extras might include them, too.
These policies can help pay for:
- the initial purchase of new hearing aids
- repairs to existing devices
- audiology services, like consultations with an audiologist.
It’s worth checking your coverage with the insurer and the specific details around claims. Some health funds, for instance, might require evidence of a hearing assessment for it.
What should I know when choosing private health insurance for hearing aids?
The devil is in the detail – and sometimes, the details of your policy could dictate how soon (and how often) you can access benefits for your hearing health. Here are some key details to know about accessing hearing aids from an extras policy:
Helpful tip
When you’re looking at extras cover, don’t just look at the benefit amount for hearing aids. Check the waiting periods and the repair rules. Many health funds will only let you claim for new devices once every few years; if you’re planning an upgrade, you might need to time it right.
It’s always worth having a chat with your insurer – or a health insurance comparison expert if you’re still shopping around – to know what’s what in terms of coverage and limits.
Andres Gutierrez
General Manager – Health
Frequently asked questions
Who is eligible for free hearing aids in Australia?
Free, fully subsidised hearing aids are available through the Australian Government Hearing Services Program (HSP) for eligible individuals. This includes Pensioner Concession Card holders, DVA card holders, and other specific groups.
Are hearing aids free for over 65s?
Not automatically. To get free or subsidised hearing aids, a person over 65 generally needs to hold a Pensioner Concession Card to be eligible for the HSP.
Are audiologists covered under private health insurance?
Yes, consultations with audiologists can be covered under extras policies, separate from the benefit for hearing aid devices. Check your policy for details on what’s included.
How can I get hearing aids?
The first step to getting hearing aids is to book a hearing test with an audiologist and they’ll be able assess whether you need hearing assistance.
You might be able to get hearing aids funded through the Hearing Services Program (HSP) or the NDIS, depending on your age and eligibility.
If you have private health insurance, it’s also worth checking whether your policy covers hearing aids.
Find and compare private health insurance
There’s a lot of noise around hearing aids and their cost, and you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself. Private health insurance might just be the missing piece to help you cover costs that government programs don’t.
At iSelect, we can help you compare a range of extras policies from different providers. Our health insurance comparison experts can help you tune in to the right information, so you can make a sound decision for your needs. Our comparison tool also lets you compare extras policies from a range of providers, so you can pick a plan that strikes the right chord with your lifestyle and budget.
Get started now or call our team on 1800 784 772.
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