Can ACC cover hearing loss caused by workplace noise?

Yes, ACC may cover occupational noise-induced hearing loss when the hearing loss meets ACC's requirements for a covered injury.

ACC assesses the injury-related component of the hearing loss and considers the person's hearing results, work history and other relevant factors.

How do I know if my hearing loss is noise-induced?

There isn't one simple test that can tell you exactly what caused your hearing loss.

Your audiologist will consider your hearing results alongside your history, including the types and duration of noise exposure you've experienced.

Other factors can also contribute to hearing loss, which is why assessing the whole picture is important.

I worked in a noisy environment years ago. Can I still make an ACC claim?

It may still be worth discussing your hearing and work history with an audiologist, even if your noisy work was many years ago.

The important thing is to provide as much information as you can about your previous noise exposure and employment history. ACC assesses claims based on the available evidence and its criteria.

I'm retired. Can I still apply for ACC cover?

Retirement doesn't automatically rule out an ACC claim.

If you have a history of occupational noise exposure, it may still be worth having your hearing assessed and discussing your options with an audiologist.

What information will I need about my work history?

The more information you can provide, the better.

It can be helpful to think about: 

• Where you worked 

• What your job involved 

• How many years you spent in noisy environments 

• The machinery, tools or equipment you were exposed to 

• How often you were exposed to loud noise 

• Whether hearing protection was available or used 

• Any previous workplace hearing tests you have had 

Don't worry if you can't remember every detail. We can work through your history with you. 

I have age-related hearing loss as well. Can I still make an ACC claim?

Possibly.

Hearing loss often has more than one contributing factor. ACC can consider the injury-related component of hearing loss, even where there may also be a non-injury-related component such as age-related hearing loss.

Your audiologist can discuss your individual circumstances and explain what may be appropriate.

Do I need to have worked in one noisy job for my entire career?

Not necessarily.

You may have worked in several different environments where you were exposed to loud noise. Tell us about the different jobs you've had and the types of noise you experienced.

Your overall history can help us understand your potential exposure to occupational noise.

What happens during the hearing assessment?

We'll talk with you about your hearing and medical history, discuss your previous noise exposure and carry out a comprehensive hearing assessment.

We'll then explain your results and discuss whether your hearing loss appears consistent with your history.

If an occupational noise-induced hearing loss claim may be appropriate, we can explain the ACC process and what happens next.

Can Bellbird Hearing lodge the ACC claim for me?

Yes. Audiologists are able to lodge occupational noise-induced hearing loss claims with ACC.

At Bellbird Hearing, we'll gather the relevant information, complete the necessary audiological assessment and lodge the claim where appropriate.

ACC then makes the decision about whether the claim is accepted.

Will ACC pay for hearing aids?

If ACC accepts your hearing loss as a covered injury and hearing aids are required as part of your support, ACC may contribute towards or fund appropriate hearing devices.

The level of support depends on your individual circumstances and the hearing-related support you require.

Will ACC pay for any hearing aids I choose?

Not necessarily.

ACC provides support based on your assessed needs and the level of hearing aid approved. If you choose to upgrade to a more expensive option, you may need to contribute towards the additional cost.

We'll explain your options and any potential costs before you make a decision.

What if my ACC claim is declined?

A declined claim doesn't mean you have to live without support for your hearing.

If your hearing loss isn't accepted as an ACC-covered injury, there may be other options available depending on your circumstances, including other government funding or private options. (Read more here)

We'll discuss the options available to you and help you understand what you can do next.

Do I need to pay for my hearing assessment?

If you are eligible for an ACC-funded hearing assessment, there is no cost to you for the hearing assessment at Bellbird Hearing. ACC covers the cost of the assessment.

If your ACC claim is accepted and hearing aids are recommended, we will explain what ACC contributes towards and discuss any options or costs with you before you make a decision.

What should I do if I think my hearing loss is work-related?

Don't guess – get your hearing checked.

If you've spent years around loud workplace noise and are now noticing changes in your hearing, book an appointment with the Bellbird Hearing team.

We'll assess your hearing, talk through your history and explain whether an ACC claim may be appropriate.

How long does the ACC claim process take?

The timeframe can vary depending on your individual circumstances, but ACC approval for hearing aid funding typically takes around 4–8 weeks from when the claim is submitted.

Some claims may be processed sooner, while others can take longer if ACC requires additional information, further assessments or specialist input, such as an ENT assessment.

At Bellbird Hearing, we will complete the required hearing assessment and submit the relevant information to ACC. ACC then assesses your claim and makes the decision about whether your hearing loss is covered.

Once a decision has been made, we can talk you through the outcome and, if your claim is accepted, discuss the hearing support and hearing aid options available to you.

Please note that the 4–8 week timeframe is a general guide only and processing times can vary.

Think your hearing loss could be work-related? 

Book a hearing assessment with Bellbird Hearing.

Our team can help you understand your hearing, discuss your history of noise exposure and guide you through the next steps.