A hearing assessment, often called a hearing test, checks how well you hear sounds at different pitches and volumes, and how clearly you understand speech. The NHS advises seeing a GP if you think your hearing is getting worse, and a GP can refer you to a hearing specialist for further tests.
This guide explains when to book an assessment, what the main parts of an assessment involve, how Australians can access subsidised testing, and where to get an assessment on the Gold Coast, in Tasmania, and in Brisbane and Moreton Bay.
When to get a hearing assessment
The NHS lists these common signs of hearing loss:
- difficulty hearing other people clearly, especially in noisy places
- needing people to repeat themselves
- listening to music or watching TV at a higher volume than other people need
- difficulty hearing on the phone
- finding it hard to keep up with a conversation
- feeling tired or stressed from concentrating while listening
The NHS notes that other people may notice a hearing problem before you do. It also says hearing loss can affect a child’s speech development and progress at school.
See a GP if you think your hearing is getting gradually worse, or if your hearing has not come back after treatment for an ear infection or earwax build-up. The NHS advises urgent help for sudden hearing loss in one or both ears, or for hearing loss with other symptoms such as earache or discharge.
What happens in a hearing assessment
Simply Hearing lists its comprehensive hearing test as including the parts below. The descriptions explain what each test measures in general terms.
- Case history. The clinician asks about your symptoms and health.
- Otoscopy. The clinician examines the ear canal and eardrum.
- Pure tone audiometry. You listen to tones through headphones and respond when you hear them. This measures how quiet a sound you can detect at different pitches.
- Speech audiometry. You repeat words that are played to you. This shows how well you understand speech.
- Tympanometry. A probe in the ear measures how the eardrum responds to changes in air pressure. This helps show whether the middle ear is working normally.
Ask the clinic how long to allow for your appointment, because it depends on which tests are included.
Understanding your results
Results are usually shown on an audiogram, a chart of the quietest sounds you can hear at different pitches. Your clinician should explain what the chart shows. Results can show:
- whether hearing loss is present, and in which ear or ears
- how well you understand speech, which can affect whether hearing aids would help
If your symptoms continue after a normal result, ask your clinician or GP whether you should be retested.
Who carries out hearing assessments
Hearing assessments are carried out by audiologists, who are trained hearing health professionals. A GP can refer you to a hearing specialist. The NHS also notes that some pharmacies and opticians offer free hearing checks, and that the RNID provides a free online hearing check.
Subsidised testing in Australia
The Australian Government’s Hearing Services Program funds hearing assessments and hearing devices for eligible people. The clinics listed below say eligibility includes Pensioner Concession Card holders, Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card and White Card holders, people receiving Sickness Allowance, and members of the Australian Defence Force. Revive Hearing also lists Disability Employment Services referrals and dependants of eligible people.
Eligibility rules can change. Confirm the current criteria with your clinic or with Services Australia before you book.
Where to get a hearing assessment in Australia
Gold Coast: Simply Hearing
Simply Hearing lists a comprehensive hearing test that includes case history, otoscopy, pure tone audiometry, speech audiometry and tympanometry. Clinics are at Broadbeach, Pimpama and Hope Island. Visit simplyhearing.com.au or call +61 422 388 005.
Tasmania: Revive Hearing
Revive Hearing lists a comprehensive hearing assessment, a diagnostic hearing test with a GP report, and kids’ hearing tests. Clinics are in Beaconsfield, South Launceston, Lilydale and Legana. Visit revivehearing.com.au or call 0484 864 941. The clinic says it is an accredited, contracted provider under the Hearing Services Program.
Brisbane and Moreton Bay: Clear Hearing Solutions
Clear Hearing Solutions lists comprehensive hearing assessments, with clinics in Hamilton, Thornlands and Caboolture. Visit clearhearingsolutions.com.au or call 07 5319 2444. The clinic says it is a contracted Hearing Services Program provider. Its children’s hearing assessments are listed as coming soon.
Check each clinic’s current services and booking requirements before you visit. Ask whether you need a GP referral for the assessment you want.
Tips before your appointment
- Bring a list of your symptoms, medicines and any previous hearing tests.
- Tell the clinic about recent ear infections, earwax problems or ear surgery.
- Ask for an explanation of your results.
- If you already use hearing aids, ask whether they can be checked at the same visit.
Earwax can affect results. If your ear feels blocked, ask whether it should be cleared first. Our guide to ear wax build-up covers the safe options.
Frequently asked questions
Does a hearing test hurt?
The tests involve listening through headphones, responding to sounds, and a probe in the ear for tympanometry. The NHS does not describe a hearing test as painful. Tell your clinician if you have concerns about any part of the assessment.
Do I need a GP referral?
Requirements vary by clinic and by how the assessment is funded. Check with the clinic before booking.
Can a free online test replace an assessment?
No. A free online check can help you decide whether to get a proper assessment, but it does not replace one. See a GP or audiologist if you have symptoms or if the result is unclear.
Sources
- NHS, “Hearing loss,” Health A to Z, page last reviewed 30 May 2025: nhs.uk
- Simply Hearing, comprehensive hearing test and clinic locations, accessed for this article: simplyhearing.com.au
- Revive Hearing, services and Hearing Services Program information, accessed for this article: revivehearing.com.au
- Clear Hearing Solutions, services, locations and Hearing Services Program information, accessed for this article: clearhearingsolutions.com.au
This article is general information, not medical advice. It does not replace an assessment by a qualified audiologist or GP. The clinics listed are named for reference only, and their services, eligibility and fees may change. If you have sudden hearing loss, ear pain, discharge, dizziness or facial weakness, seek urgent medical care.
