HEARING SERVICES PROGRAM (HSP) · BUNDABERG
Free Hearing Tests and Hearing Aids for Pensioners and Veterans in Bundaberg
If you hold a Pensioner Concession Card or an eligible DVA card, the Australian Government Hearing Services Program can cover your hearing assessment and a range of fully subsidised hearing aids. AIM Hearing is an accredited Hearing Services Program provider, 100% locally owned and independent, in Avoca next door to Sugarland Plaza (Stockland Bundaberg).
You can choose your hearing provider
Many people believe the government hearing program is only available through Hearing Australia. It is not. Hearing Australia is one of more than 300 providers contracted under the program, across nearly 3,000 locations nationally.
If you are eligible for the program’s voucher scheme, which covers most pensioners and veterans, you choose which accredited provider you see. That includes AIM Hearing. Your entitlements under the program are the same, so the choice comes down to the care, the time and the local service you want.
The only exception is the program’s Community Service Obligations stream, which is delivered by Hearing Australia. It covers people under 26, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 and over, and people who need specialist hearing services, such as those with a cochlear implant or profound hearing loss. If that applies to you, we will happily point you in the right direction.
Am I eligible?
You may be eligible for the voucher scheme if you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident, aged 21 or over, and hold, for example:
- a Pensioner Concession Card
- a DVA Gold Card, or a DVA White Card for hearing loss
- one of a small number of other specific entitlements (the official eligibility checker lists them all)
A Commonwealth Seniors Health Card on its own does not qualify. If you are not sure, bring your card to reception and we can check your eligibility in a few minutes, or use the government’s official eligibility checker. You do not need to apply on your own, we can help you with the application.
What is included for eligible clients
- A full hearing assessment, explained in plain English, with a copy for your GP if you would like one.
- Fully subsidised hearing aids from a range that meets the program’s standards, if hearing aids are recommended.
- Fitting and follow-up, with every fitting at AIM Hearing verified by Real Ear Measurement, so your hearing aids are set to your hearing loss rather than left on factory settings.
- Ongoing care, including reviews and adjustments under the program.
- Batteries and repairs through the program’s maintenance arrangement. A small yearly contribution may apply, and we will always explain it upfront.
Optional top-up hearing aids
Some features sit outside the fully subsidised range, such as the most advanced noise processing or very discreet styles. If you want them, you can choose to pay the difference, and the government subsidy still applies. It is entirely your choice. We will always show you the fully subsidised options first, and tell you honestly when they will do the job just as well.
Veterans
If you are a veteran eligible for the program, you may also be able to access extra support from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, such as assistive listening devices and tinnitus support. We seek DVA approval on your behalf. Read more about DVA hearing services at AIM Hearing.
How it works at AIM Hearing
- Call us or request a callback. We will call you back within one business day.
- We check your eligibility and help with your application if you do not have a voucher yet.
- Your one-hour hearing assessment. You are welcome to bring your partner or a family member, and we encourage it.
- Fitting and follow-up, if hearing aids are recommended, verified with Real Ear Measurement.
- Yearly reviews to keep your hearing aids working at their best.
Because AIM Hearing is a sole-clinician practice, you will see Alan at every appointment.
Already with another provider?
If you already have hearing aids through the program with another provider, including Hearing Australia or one of the national chains, you can move your care to AIM Hearing. We handle the paperwork with you. How transferring to AIM works · Complete the HSP transfer consent online.
Frequently asked questions
Is it really free?
For eligible clients, the hearing assessment and a range of hearing aids are fully subsidised by the Australian Government. A small yearly maintenance contribution may apply for batteries and repairs, and top-up hearing aids are optional. We will explain any cost before anything is agreed.
Can I switch from Hearing Australia to AIM Hearing?
Yes. If you receive services under the voucher scheme, you can choose to move to another accredited provider, including AIM Hearing. We will help you with the transfer.
Does a Seniors Health Card qualify?
No. A Commonwealth Seniors Health Card on its own does not provide eligibility for the program. We can still help you as a private client, including through AIM Signature Care.
How often can I get new hearing aids?
Under the program, hearing aids can generally be replaced after five years, or sooner if there is a clinical need.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes, and we encourage it. A partner or family member often notices things you do not, and it helps everyone understand your results.
Book your free hearing assessment
Shop 1/1 Heidke Street, Avoca, next door to Sugarland Plaza (Stockland Bundaberg). Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.