Pensioners and Veterans

Who is eligible for a Voucher from the Office of Hearing Services and how do I get one?

Pensioners and DVA veterans are eligible for free hearing services including a hearing test, and hearing aids if appropriate. The initial voucher application must be signed by your GP. On receipt of a voucher you can choose a provider on the list. Sunraysia Hearing Clinic is listed as a permanent site.

What is the difference between a permanent site and a visiting site?

A visiting site is required to have a clinician on site only once a month, while a permanent site must be open 35 hours a week and have a clinician on site at least 40% of the time.
Sunraysia Hearing Clinic is a permanent site: we have 2 clinicians, we live locally, and the clinic is open 5 days a week, with a minimum of one clinician on site every day apart from holidays.

What is top-up?

"Top up" hearing aids have additional features but are not essential to meet clinical needs. If pensioners or veterans choose "top up" hearing aids they will be required to pay the difference in cost.

What are maintenance fees?

When we talk about maintenance in the context of Government funded hearing aids, we are referring to an annual fee which covers the hearing aid user for batteries and repairs. This is made up from a contribution from the individual and also the Government: this year the individual's fee is $37.80. (The Department of Veteran's Affairs will pay the individuals maintenance fee for eligible DVA clients) ...