Hearing Aids & Devices
Independent advice and fitting across all major hearing aid brands — no manufacturer affiliations, no commissions. Our only goal is finding the right solution for your hearing, your lifestyle, and your budget.
Do I need a hearing test before getting hearing aids?
Yes — a full diagnostic hearing assessment is required before hearing aids can be properly fitted. The test produces an audiogram: a precise map of your hearing loss across all frequencies. Your audiologist uses this to program hearing aids specifically to your profile.
Without a hearing test, aids can only be set to generic levels — amplifying the wrong sounds and missing the ones you actually struggle with. A properly programmed hearing aid performs significantly better.
At Canberra Audiology: Every hearing aid journey begins with a comprehensive diagnostic assessment. We never recommend a device before we fully understand your hearing. Learn more →
What types of hearing aids are available?
Modern hearing aids come in a range of styles to suit different degrees of hearing loss, ear anatomy, dexterity, and personal preference.
Receiver-in-Canal (RIC)
The most popular style. Small, discreet, and suitable for most types of hearing loss. The speaker sits in the ear canal; the processor sits behind the ear.
Behind-the-Ear (BTE)
Sits entirely behind the ear with a tube connecting to a custom earmould. Suitable for all degrees of hearing loss including severe and profound.
In-the-Ear (ITE)
Custom-made to fit in the outer ear. Larger than canal styles but easier to handle — useful for those with dexterity difficulties.
In-the-Canal (ITC)
Smaller custom device that sits partly in the ear canal. More discreet than ITE styles while still being relatively easy to handle.
Completely-in-Canal (CIC)
Fits entirely inside the ear canal — very discreet. Best suited for mild to moderate hearing loss. Smaller size can make handling harder.
Invisible-in-Canal (IIC)
The smallest and most discreet option — sits deep in the ear canal and is virtually invisible. Suited for mild to moderate hearing loss.
What features do modern hearing aids have?
Hearing aid technology has advanced significantly over the past decade. Key features in modern devices include:
- Directional microphones — automatically focus on the voice you want to hear while reducing background noise
- Bluetooth streaming — stream audio directly from phones, TVs, and tablets
- Rechargeable batteries — all-day power with no fiddly batteries to change
- AI-powered noise management — real-time processing that adapts to your listening environment automatically
- Remote fine-tuning — your audiologist can adjust your aids remotely without you coming in
- Tinnitus management programs — built-in sound therapy for tinnitus relief
- IP-rated waterproofing — built to handle sweat, rain, and daily wear
Which technology level do I need?
The right technology level depends on your hearing loss, lifestyle, and how often you're in challenging listening environments. A good independent audiologist will recommend the tier that matches your actual situation — not the most expensive option.
| Technology Tier | Best Suited For |
|---|---|
| Basic / Entry | Very quiet, home-based lifestyle. Rarely in social environments. |
| Bronze | Quiet, mostly home-based lifestyle. Occasionally in social environments. |
| Silver | Moderate lifestyle. Infrequently in social environments. |
| Gold | Busy lifestyle. In social environments several times per week. |
| Platinum | Very busy lifestyle. Frequently in social environments. Significant consequences if miscommunication occurs. |
Which hearing aid brands do you carry?
As a fully independent clinic, we stock all major hearing aid brands and are not affiliated with or incentivised by any manufacturer. We select devices based purely on clinical suitability.
How much do hearing aids cost in Canberra?
Hearing aids at Canberra Audiology range from around $1,500 to $6,500+ per device depending on technology tier and style. The price includes your fitting, unlimited follow-up in the first year, a battery supply or recharger, and a trial period.
Many patients are eligible for government funding that significantly reduces out-of-pocket costs — including the Hearing Services Program, DVA, and Medicare rebates. Flexible payment plans through MediPay are available from $25 per week.
Not sure what funding you qualify for? See all funding options → or call us on (02) 6156 4474.
What is included when I buy hearing aids at Canberra Audiology?
- A comprehensive diagnostic hearing assessment
- Fitting appointment with real-ear measurement verification
- Unlimited follow-up consultations for the first year
- One year's supply of batteries or a rechargeable charging case
- A trial period — test the aids in real-world environments before committing
- Option to swap to a different device during the trial if needed
- Ongoing reprogramming as your hearing changes over time
No hidden fees. No commissions influencing what we recommend.
What is real-ear measurement and why does it matter?
Real-ear measurement (REM) is the gold-standard method of verifying that a hearing aid is delivering the correct amplification levels in your specific ear canal — not just the levels shown on the programming software. Every ear canal is different, which affects how sound is amplified. Without REM, even an experienced audiologist is estimating.
At Canberra Audiology: Real-ear measurement is performed as standard at every fitting. It's one of the most important differences between a properly fitted hearing aid and a poorly fitted one. Why fittings sometimes fail →
Can you service or repair hearing aids from other clinics?
Yes — we provide maintenance, cleaning, and repairs for all major hearing aid brands regardless of where they were purchased. Parts and batteries are available in-clinic or can be ordered within a few business days. Call us on (02) 6156 4474.
Book a Hearing Aid Consultation in Canberra
Available at our Deakin and Downer clinics. Medicare rebates available on the assessment with a GP referral. Government funding options available.