• NEW INITIATIVES • TREATMENT INSIGHT
SHOULD AUDIOMETRY BE REGISTERED IF AUDIOLOGY IS?
Peak bodies say exclusion of audiometrists could harm the public and the profession
• PRACTITIONER AND PATIENT STORIES 42
IMPROVING MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING
Supporting the psychological aspects of hearing loss in your clients
CONFERENCE SEASON RAMPS UP Previews of what to expect at AudA's 2025 conference and the HBA Seminar
Australia’s health ministers have agreed in-principle to national Ahpra registration of audiologists, with consultation due to end in February and audiometrists now seeking to be included.
Peak professional bodies ACAud inc. HAASA and Audiology Australia are concerned that if audiologists are registered under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) but audiometrists are excluded, it could negatively impact the public and profession.
The health ministers have agreed in-principle to audiologist registration under the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme (NRAS), including Ahpra registration, pending further work and consultation to inform a final decision.
A Queensland Health spokesperson said consultation
was expected to end in February, but the decision was limited to audiology and it was up to the Health Ministers Meeting to decide when a formal decision would be made.
The Australian College of Audiology incorporating HAASA (ACAud inc. HAASA) CEO Mr Miguel Diaz said ACAud inc. HASSA was “strongly advocating for the inclusion of audiometrists in any move toward regulation.”
“Audiometrists and audiologists both play critical roles in adult hearing rehabilitation, often working side by side,” he said. “A move to only regulate audiologists could have a negative impact not only on audiometrists but also on the availability and accessibility of hearing services to the public.”
In December 2024, Queensland Health released the Consultation
Paper 2 Audiology Decision RIS (Regulatory Impact Statement). It progressed the next consultation phase for the Health Workforce Taskforce including targeted consultation with stakeholders to consider costs, implementation, risks, and impacts on First Nations communities.
“ACAud inc. HAASA has been
The State Insurance Regulatory Authority (SIRA), which manages workers’ compensation in NSW, has proposed dramatic cost cutting for hearing aid fitting and rehabilitation for people who sustain workplace-related hearing loss.
Changes proposed in an updated hearing aid workers compensation fees order include slashing the hearing aid fitting cap from $2,500 to $1,750, forcing providers to fit lower levels of technology.
“The cost price of hearing aid/s, including remote control, charger, batteries and consumables will change from a maximum of $2,500 per aid to a maximum of $1,750 per aid,” SIRA’s Consultation Paper for
the Hearing Aid Fee Order 2024 states. “The rationale is this price is set to match icare’s maximum so it is equal across all insurers. This price point captures the RRP of most hearing aids on WorkSafe Victoria’s Approved List.”
Also proposed is a change for in-person and telehealth hearing rehabilitation from a flat fee of $686.90 to a per consultation fee (30 minutes) of $85.80, “to align with other jurisdictions”.
A hearing aid handling fee of $349.70 will be abolished and incorporated into a supply fee, comparable with other jurisdictions.
The Hearing Care Industry Association (HCIA) said the changes
would adversely affect consumers and hearing practitioners. “There is no clinical justification for these cost cutting measures which contradict even SIRA’s own published research on the complexity of occupational noise-induced hearing loss,” HCIA said.
involved in the Decision RIS consultation process including making a written submission to the Decision RIS Project Team and through direct communications with all state and territory health ministers and the federal health minister.”
Diaz said.
ACAud inc. HAASA invited members in December to take part in the consultation, and a virtual Q and A in January had great engagement to discuss “this critically important topic” and what members could do to ensure the message got through to state health ministers.
Audiology Australia (AudA) CEO Ms Leanne Emerson said AudA had two town hall meetings and invited members to provide written feedback through its website. “This feedback informed our written response to the
“Clinicians and consumers should be very concerned about these proposed changes and how they will degrade outcomes for injured workers. By reducing funding, the proposed cuts will leave patients with suboptimal hearing solutions that do not meet their needs, leading to continued difficulties in communication and a slower, less effective rehabilitation process.”
Melbourne audiologist Seray Lim’s parents escaped the killing fields of Cambodia when she was in her mother’s womb. Things have come full circle with Lim now volunteering in Cambodia, providing hearing care in rural areas and helping fundraise to build schools and provide scholarships. page 18
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A winning combination Perth audiometrist Meredyth Haynes became an audiology partner in three Specsavers stores in just 19 months.
Tinnitus collaboration Widex has partnered with MindEar to help clinicians deliver scalable and affordable tinnitus management.
New HQ for GN
The company's new Australian facility is leading the industry and GN globally in manufacturing and logistics.
Edge AI arrives
Starkey’s newest hearing aids, boasting 30% better speech identification, have hit Australian shores.
As everyone in the hearing care world knows, T is for tinnitus. To coincide with Tinnitus Awareness Week in February, this edition is dedicated to tinnitus and the incredible practitioners and industry partners who devote their time and technology to helping the thousands of people who struggle daily with what can be a very debilitating condition.
We’ve spoken to three of Australasia's most experienced tinnitus practitioners – Melbourne audiologists Ms Myriam Westcott and Ms Mini Gupta, and Professor Grant Searchfield from Auckland University – about what’s worked for their patients and what’s on the horizon.
We also heard from tinnitus patients Mr John Ross, Dr Emma Laird (also an audiologist) and Mr Damian Duke who bravely shared their stories of struggle, persistence and hope to help others know there is help and to not give up.
Industry is developing amazing technologies and programs to help clinicians help their tinnitus patients. Widex and MindEar discuss one – their partnership has led to a newly launched innovative program that helps clinicians deliver scalable and affordable tinnitus management.
We provide a glimpse of GN’s fabulous new state-of-the art facility in Sydney which is leading the industry and GN globally in manufacturing and logistics. The HQ combines operations in ANZ for GN Hearing, Jabra, and SteelSeries.
There’s an update from Starkey on its Edge AI hearing aids which have arrived in Australia following rave reviews of "amazing sound quality and connectivity" overseas, and a feature on how clinicians can improve mental health and wellbeing in patients, with tips from experts.
There’s a great profile on audiometrist Mrs Meredyth Haynes who changed career in midlife from nursing to audiometry after being diagnosed with hearing loss. She hasn’t looked back since swapping to Specsavers and becoming an audiology partner in three Perth stores.
Another inspirational practitioner is Melbourne audiologist Ms Seray Lim whose voluntary hearing care and charity work is making a big difference to rural Cambodians.
With conference season approaching, we preview major upcoming events; the Audiology Australia 2025 Conference in Adelaide in April, and Hearing Business Alliance’s Seminar in Melbourne late February early March. The organisations reveal what delegates can expect, what’s new and the stellar line-up of national and international speakers.
HELEN CARTER Editor
In support of Tinnitus Awareness Week – we have 50 licenses available for our Widex Tinnitus Relief Program at the special price of $495 (usually $695*). Please quote “TAW” when placing order. Secure your licenses today!
To place an order contact: orders.au@widexsound.com 1800 999 659 (Dial 1)
With improved battery performance, the new Widex SmartRIC is our longest-lasting rechargeable RIC hearing aid ever, providing extended wear and more streaming time. With a portable charger, the SmartRIC offers hassle-free charging, mobility, and over a week of freedom. Designed to support the Widex Tinnitus Relief Program, the SmartRIC offers effective relief for tinnitus sufferers.
Just as HPA went to print, OVER-THE-COUNTER (OTC) hearing aids were given the green light to be sold in the UK. On 16 January 2025, the UK Government approved the sale of OTC hearing aids and other devices including earphones with hearing test and hearing aid software functionalities. It said patient safety was paramount and it would ensure that all manufacturers complied with legislation. But the British Academy of Audiology has called for “high-quality studies to assess their suitability and effectiveness, given the limited evidence base for
OTC products”. IN OTHER NEWS, La Trobe University research has found cl inicians’ phones are a cybersecurity risk. The study found sensitive patient data was at a greater risk of being hacked or accidentally leaked from clinicians’ personal devices due to inadequate cybersecurity measures and a tendency for doctors to use their personal phones for medical purposes. Digital health lecturer Dr Tafheem Wani said clinicians’ phones (and other digital devices) contained sensitive patient information, which was not often protected by antivirus software and passcodes. The use of personal devices for work purposes, known as bring your
own device (BYOD), had significantly increased in hospitals because clinicians needed efficiency and mobility while at work. FINALLY, Hearing Australia has announced the appointment of Professor Scott Avery to its board. The professor of Indigenous disability health and wellbeing in the School of Public Health, University of Technology Sydney, is an Aboriginal man descendant from the Worimi people and profoundly deaf. Board chair, Ms Elizabeth Crouch AM said Prof Avery's connections with First Nations communities would add great depth to the board's work and its focus on improving ear and hearing health of First Nations people.
Weird
When bats can’t hear, new research shows they employ a remarkable compensation strategy. Johns Hopkins University researchers suggest bats brains might be hard-wired with an ability to launch plan B in times of diminished hearing. Adaptation behaviours they employed were innate, latent and almost automatic, suggesting there might be multiple pathways for sound to travel to the auditory cortex. It raised questions about whether other animals or even humans might be capable of such accommodations.
Wonderful
Various methods are being explored to convert sign language hand gestures into text or spoken language in real time. In a first of its kind study, Florida Atlantic University researchers have recognised American Sign Language (ASL) alphabet gestures using computer vision. They developed a custom dataset of 29,820 static images of ASL hand gestures, each annotated with 21 key landmarks on the hand, providing detailed spatial information about its structure and position. Their model was highly accurate in classifying ASL gestures.
Wacky University of Washington researchers have created AI headphones that create a ‘sound bubble’ quieting all sounds more than one to two metres away. The prototype allows listeners to hear people speaking within a bubble with a programmable radius of one to two metres. Voices and sounds outside the bubble are quieted an average of 49 decibels, even if they’re louder than those in the bubble. The researchers are creating a start-up to commercialise the tech but the code for the proof-of-concept device is available for others to build on.
Tinnitus affects up to 25% of the Australian population
Only one in five in this group seek medical attention, and fewer (about 4%) are referred to a hearing care professional, says Widex. Page 22.
THIS MONTH
HBA BUSINESS SEMINAR
28 FEBRUARY - 2 MARCH
The 2025 Hearing Business Alliance Seminar in Melbourne will be at Pullman Melbourne on the Park. Its theme is ‘Innovate to Elevate: Transforming small business models’. hearbusiness.com.au
Complete calendar page 51.
NEXT MONTH
NEWBORN HEARING CONFERENCE
20-21 MARCH
The 2025 Australasian Newborn Hearing Screening Conference in Canberra will bring together leaders in the field and practitioners across many disciplines. anhsconference.com
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targeted consultation which, in principle is supportive of registration. We also asked members to indicate their support or otherwise for the regulation under NRAS (Ahpra) in our member survey,” she said.
“While regulation under the NRAS is one avenue for achieving title protection and greater protections for the community, we remain concerned about the exclusion of audiometry. The Decision RIS is intended to cover regulation across all aspects of audiology, yet the latest consultation paper overlooks the integration and overlap between audiology and audiometry in many other areas of hearing health, notably, adult rehabilitation.”
Emerson said if audiology was regulated under the NRAS but audiometry was not (the current scope of the review), there could be “unintended consequences such as a dilution of clinical protections, impact to consumer confidence in one or both professions and greater confusion for the community”.
“At the same time, the health ministers have established an independent review of complexity in the NRAS, which could provide all of the benefits of regulation under NRAS, in a more integrated way,” she added. “
"The review has proposed a three-tiered model of regulation that would create greater consistency, parity and recognition across all health professions and remove areas of
unproductive and unnecessary complexity, benefitting audiologists, audiometrists, and the public.”
Mr Chedy Kalach, Australasian College of Audiometry managing director said he supported Ahpra registration for audiometrists and had submitted feedback.
“Audiometrists are a critical part of the audio profession and need to be recognised,” he said.
Independent Audiologists Australia executive officer Ms Julie Watts said the paper was "an important milestone in the journey to audiology’s inclusion in the NRAS, and IAA participated in a detailed interview with the Audiology Decision-RIS Project Team in January.” "This was an invaluable opportunity to encourage a stronger, and higher quality, professional model of service delivery, and regulatory processes,” she said.
“The consultation ensured independent audiologists have had a strong voice in requesting regulatory change. Protection of title for all audiologists, and thorough patient safeguards are integral for the future of the audiological profession.This is about ensuring that audiologists are recognisable to the public, and are working in the same framework as other allied health professions."
Watts said IAA did not support a three-tiered model, “given continued significant failures in thousands of paediatric
“A MOVE TO ONLY REGULATE AUDIOLOGISTS COULD HAVE A NEGATIVE IMPACT NOT ONLY ON AUDIOMETRISTS BUT ALSO ON THE AVAILABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY OF HEARING SERVICES TO THE PUBLIC.”
MIGUEL
DIAZ, ACAUD INC. HAASA
audiology diagnoses in the UK, under this style of model” .
The Decision RIS of the audiology profession defined the profession as the audiologist workforce, rather than the audiologist and audiometrist workforce, only considering options for regulation of audiologists. “This current phase of research and analysis retains this definition of the audiology profession, and thus regulation of the audiometrist profession is considered out of scope for consultation,” the consultation paper states.
“However, it is recognised that there are risks and potential unintended consequences to the audiometry profession if the audiology profession is included under the NRAS. Consideration of risks and unintended consequences to the audiometry profession is thus considered in-scope for consultation.”
The paper said national registration may lead to increases to professional indemnity insurance costs which could affect audiologists and potentially audiometrists. It estimated registration fees at $500 a year for practising audiologists ($100 for non-practising) if a single audiology national board was established. This may reduce by 40% to 70% under a multiprofession national board or a board with two or more professions, the paper said.
IAA’s advocacy chair Dr Tegan Keogh said this cost could potentially be negated.
continued from page 3
HCIA claimed the cost-cutting relied on an unknown need for fee harmonisation across different state jurisdictions –each with different premiums, benefits, employers and rules – in what ‘appears to be a race to the bottom’.
“The complexity of work-related noise-induced hearing loss compared to general age-related hearing loss is significant and requires significantly more investment by clinicians, consumers and insurers,” it said. “Similarly, these workers experience greater difficulty performing job-specific tasks than those with age-related hearing loss, necessitating more robust support systems.
“It’s proven that work-related hearing loss is associated with more severe functional and communication challenges, necessitating rehabilitation plans
that go beyond standard age-related interventions, requiring longer sessions, multiple follow-ups and tailored counselling that address the specific demands of occupational settings.” Industrial deafness was also tied to higher rates of emotional and psychological distress.
“Workers’ compensation patients often present with more complex hearing issues, such as tinnitus and steeply sloping hearing losses. These require more effective background noise reduction and more in-depth rehabilitation,” HCIA said. Injured workers were generally younger, typically more active than HSP clients and still working, often in noisy environments and difficult listening situations. Their lifestyles demanded further considerations, such as outdoor support and wind noise reduction.
A SIRA spokesman said NSW had the highest rate for supply of hearing aids of
any Australian jurisdiction. Benchmarking fees was standard to understand market rates when reviewing fees.
HCIA claimed SIRA conducted limited consultation on proposals with few stakeholders. SIRA said it conducted targeted consultation which included industry peak bodies to reach a large representation of businesses, audiologists and insurers. SIRA received 20 submissions including from the HCIA, insurers and providers. It's considering this feedback to inform decisions but hasn't decided on outcomes, the SIRA spokesman said, adding that changes are due to take effect on 1 April 2025. He said SIRA would continue to engage with industry as the work progresses to achieve value-based heathcare for injured workers and ensure financial viability of the Workers Compensation Scheme.
Elective surgery waiting lists for ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgery at public hospitals were the worst of any speciality in 2023-2024, according to updated data from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).
The average wait time (the 50th percentile) was 111 days for otolaryngology, head and neck surgery. This was more than double the average wait across all elective surgeries of 46 days for non-Indigenous Australians and 56 days for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Extensive waits were recorded for myringoplasty/tympanoplasty with the average wait time (the 50th percentile) being 262 days, and nearly one-third of patients (31.5%) waited more than a year. Ninety percent of patients had the surgery within 632 days.
The speciality performed the worst on all wait time metrics.
While 90% of ENT patients were seen within 429 days, one in six (16.6%) waited more than a year for surgery compared with 6.4% of patients overall waiting more than a year.
Updates to the AIHW’s MyHospitals platform, released on 6 December 2024, said waiting times for almost all intended procedures decreased compared to 2022–2023 except for increases in median waiting times for tonsillectomy, and myringotomy.
Myringotomy recorded a six day increase from 82 days in 2022–2023 to 88 days in 2023–2024. This was 23 days more than in 2019–2020. While 90% had myringotomy
within 304 days, 5.6% waited more than a year for the procedure.
The update revealed that in 2023–2024 public hospital admissions for elective surgery were the highest on record, with 771,551 patients admitted from all states and territories except the Northern Territory whose data was unavailable. About 8% or 61,130 admissions were for otolaryngology, head and neck surgery.
“While most elective surgeries performed in Australia are undertaken in private hospitals, the information presented in this update provides an overview of elective surgeries from public hospital waitlists,” AIHW spokesperson Ms Clara Jellie said.
“The increase in the number of admissions from public hospital elective surgery waitlists follows a period of considerable disruption to the health system as a result of the pandemic, where we saw fluctuations in the numbers of elective surgeries being performed as outbreaks of COVID-19 impacted patients, and the availability of hospital staff and resources.”
Audiometrists finally have their own job classification recognised by the Australian Government and no longer must be categorised under medical technicians for taxation and other purposes.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) launched a new classification scheme, the Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA) in December 2024.
OSCA replaces the Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO) for use in Australia.
Under the new scheme, audiometry has its own OSCA code, and music therapists also now have their own classification.
The audiometry industry welcomed the move as a first step to improve awareness of and report on potential job shortages in the field.
The Australian College of Audiology (ACAud) incorporating HAASA advocated for the move and helped contribute to the new classification, supported by the Australasian College of Audiometry (AuCA).
“AuCA supported ACAud in advocating for audiometrists to have their own classification,” AuCA director Mr Chedy Kalach told HPA
“AuCA feels this is a big step to benefit the industry. Having its own classification will better enable Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) and other government departments to report on potential jobs shortages which can then lead to various government programs and increased awareness.”
A recent HPA story revealed the average wages of hearing practitioners in
Australia from Australian Taxation Office data from the 2021-2022 financial year, the latest available.
There was no specific data for audiometrists however as they were included in the broader medical technicians’ category. Going forward they will now have their own category.
Assistant Minister for Employment, Dr Andrew Leigh, and Australian Statistician Dr David Gruen launched OSCA at ABS House on 6 December 2024. In New Zealand, the National Occupation List (NOL) was released by Stats NZ.
The ABS ANZSCO Review Team said ANZSCO comprehensive review consultations during 2023 and 2024 had led to a classification which better reflected the modern labour market.
Kalach also encouraged employers to do the jobs and skills shortage survey at jobsandskills.gov.au/ which is open until March 2025 for employers and potential employers to report on their employment activity for 2024.
“The more feedback Jobs and Skills Australia receives the better the data,” he said.
Brisbane-based personalised audio company Audeara claims it transformed Brisbane’s Normanby Hotel into the world’s first Auracast-enabled pub during the launch of its Audeara Buds.
Auracast technology revolutionises Bluetooth by enabling a one-to-many connection, allowing an unlimited number of users within range to listen to the same audio stream. This creates new ways to share audio in personal and public spaces, opening possibilities for public listening by allowing people to tune into a single broadcast delivered clearly to their Auracast-enabled devices.
Audeara Buds – the first in-ear solution from Audeara – also debuted at the launch. They are a listening aid which Audeara claims help people better engage in conversation and enjoy enhanced audio experience.
“Audeara Buds personalise sound to a user’s unique hearing profile and can be used for streaming entertainment, improving listening and hearing the world around you clearly,” Audeara said. Their personalisation algorithm includes
two situational listening modes and active noise cancellation to enhance how users interact with sounds.
Audeara said that through Auracast, patrons at the hotel could now connect directly to a range of audio streams such as live sports commentary, music or stay more engaged at trivia nights. It said the technology enabled people to share a seamless listening experience with friends and ensured everyone could stay connected to sounds regardless of their hearing ability.
Attendees at the launch on 5 December 2024 saw a live demonstration of Auracast technology which is available for people of all hearing abilities. Guests described the sound as “remarkably clear” and “truly immersive.”
Audera CEO Dr James Fielding said, in a video, that it was exciting to be at the launch of Audeara Buds and Auracast transmitters and lapel microphones.
“As we’ve been integrally involved in the audiology market for almost ten years, we knew it was time to start developing product that would not only personalise
Dr Ian
an incredible entertainment experience but also personalise the world around you to really let people be in control of their listening environment, whether it be cutting edge Auracast technology or that personalised sound to make sure you never miss a beat or an important conversation,” he said.
He said the next step was filling up with audiology partners around Australia and the world and continuing to progress the technology into medical device spaces.
American doctors have documented 84 hearing-related adverse events in patients taking teprotumumab (Tepezza) for thyroid eye disease since April 2020. They found use in patients with thyroid conditions was associated with a nearly 24-fold increased likelihood of any hearing disorder. The association was specifically elevated for a variety of deafness conditions – e.g. bilateral deafness, Eustachian tube disorders, hypoacusis and tinnitus. The University of Alabama researchers analysed the FDA’s Adverse Event Reporting System database for postmarketing surveillance and research. Teprotumumab is approved by the FDA to treat thyroid eye disease, also known as Graves’ disease. Its manufacturer, Amgen, said the treatment “may cause severe hearing impairment including hearing loss, which in some cases may be permanent” and advised to “assess patients’ hearing before, during, and after treatment with Tepezza and consider the benefit-risk of treatment with patients”. An application is under evaluation by the TGA for use in Australia.
Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics will be better equipped to provide high quality care to Deaf and hard of hearing patients, with the introduction of basic Auslan and Deaf awareness training. AV has rolled out training to all staff and volunteers as part of a partnership with Awesome Auslan. AV is providing staff with a free self-paced online Auslan and Deaf awareness course through Awesome Auslan. Participating staff wear a ‘Learning Auslan’ badge to identify their training and capability to the community. AV disability inclusion program lead Ms Amber Smith said the training provided knowledge and skills to the workforce to help remove communication barriers experienced by the Deaf and hard of hearing community in a health emergency. It also helped to create a safe, fair and inclusive workplace for AV’s Deaf and hard of hearing workforce.
Another study has suggested there may be a link between hearing impairment and an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The British study, which followed people who had a hearing test for an average 14 years, revealed a 57% increased risk of Parkinson’s for every 10-decibel increase in baseline hearing impairment. Lancaster University researchers said their findings suggested hearing impairment was “intricately related to Parkinson’s” and underscored “the potential benefits of addressing auditory function in Parkinson’s diagnosis and follow-up care.” Writing in Parkinsonism & Related Disorders, they said it was not clear if the link between Parkinson’s and hearing loss was causal or there was simply a correlation. They analysed data from 159,395 people in the UK Biobank biomedical database who had undergone a hearing test measuring their ability to detect speech in noisy environments and who had no history of Parkinson’s at the time of the assessment.
Soundfair has launched a directory of healthcare professionals who provide tinnitus management. The resource enables the public to search for practitioners who are qualified in and deliver different tinnitus management strategies and support services.
Public demand resulted in Soundfair’s Tinnitus Awareness initiative launching the Find a Tinnitus Professional referral network in January 2025. It aims to provide better-matched services and improve patient outcomes.
The resource connects individuals living with tinnitus to practitioners offering services such as counselling, sound therapy and hearing aid support. People can search specific strategies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or tinnitus retraining therapy (TRT) to find a local match.
Soundfair CEO Dr Caitlin Barr said the directory was for any professional who works with people who have tinnitus. This includes hearing care professionals, and others such as psychologists, physiotherapists and ENTs.
“The network will help people find specialists who offer more than basic audiology services, addressing specific management strategies and techniques,” Dr Barr told HPA
provide the tinnitus support,” Dr Barr added.
“It’s win-win.”
The directory allows unlimited free public searches. The fee for individual clinicians applying to be included in the register is $99 but this was 50% off during Tinnitus Awareness Week, 3-9 February 2025 for clinicians who registered before 10 February.
“It’s the first of its kind – we’ve found no similar services locally or overseas,” Dr Barr said.
Audiologists sign up online through a vetting process which ensures they have the appropriate qualifications for the service they are providing.
Dr Emma Laird who previously worked at Soundfair as projects and program lead and was involved in setting up the directory said: “We need as many audiologists and psychologists to sign up as possible to provide the public with more choices. It’s important to offer various treatment options as what works for one person may not work for another.
The directory will specify which tinnitus treatments practitioners use and what additional expertise they have. Image: Aleksej/stock. adobe.com.
“It aims to connect people with clinicians who specialise in tinnitus management such as audiologists, and complements existing professional directories because it specifies which treatments the clinicians use and what additional expertise they have.”
People can browse services, providers, telehealth, location and funding options.
“Audiologists and audiometrists can also use this feature to search for clinicians to
“We’re asking clinicians about the exact strategies they use, what sort of techniques and training they have because when I was answering the phone for Tinnitus Australia (now Tinnitus Awareness), many people said they had been to an audiologist or a psychologist, but they didn’t understand or didn’t provide what they needed.”
The resource is also being promoted to other health professionals including ENT specialists and GPs who treat tinnitus.
“Somatic tinnitus can be worsened by neck and jaw issues and some physiotherapists offer tinnitus treatment so we would like to include them,” Dr Barr said.
“We’re also approaching psychologists as the field is quite multidisciplinary although audiologists are the primary specialists.”
Practitioners list all management services they offer for tinnitus including informational counselling, TRT, CBT, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), hearing aid fitting for tinnitus management, sound therapy devices or approaches and support group facilitation. They can also add additional conditions they manage including hearing loss, hyperacusis, misophonia, balance disorders and auditory processing disorder. See soundfair.org.au/tinnitus-referral-network/
The National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA) is reviewing its decision to remove music therapy as a therapeutic support funded by the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).
The NDIA announced on 13 December 2024 that health economist Dr Stephen Duckett AM would lead an independent review to address critical areas including evidence of effectiveness of art and music therapy for people with disability, qualifications and registration of music and art practitioners, and pricing of art and music support.
The University of Queensland (UQ) has been named the leading research institution in Australia and the world for audiology, speech and language pathology.
newspaper’s 2025 Research also named Australia’s leading researcher in audiology, speech and language pathology as Ear Science Institute Australia’s Dr Rob Eikelboom, and the nation’s leading otolaryngology researcher as Professor Richard Harvey from Macquarie University. It named Macquarie University as Australia’s leading otolaryngology
The magazine used Google Scholar data to assess the top research performers and institutions. Ranking is based on the quality and impact of their work measured by the number of citations for papers published in the top 20 journals of each field in the past five years.
prevention, timely identification and treatment and provision of accessible, high quality hearing care,” they added.
“We’re committed to educating the next generation of researchers in audiology and speech pathology who want to have impact on the quality of clinical services provided to the community.”
They said the disciplines worked closely together at UQ to combine expertise in person and family-centred care for people with hearing loss, with a focus on communication impacts.
“This accolade is a wonderful reflection of this interprofessional work and the impact of this work on clinical practice,” they said. It reflected the breadth and depth of UQ’s work in hearing-related communication disability, the contemporary approaches used in implementation science and co-design, and funding success, they added.
The review will seek from art and music practice associations any additional peer-reviewed evidence that supports are effective and beneficial as a disability-related support for most participants and are current good practice.
Parents of Deaf Children (PODC) and the Australian Music Therapy Association, which both opposed the removal of music therapy, welcomed the review.
PODC said the evidence showed that music therapy in Deaf and Hard of Hearing children improved speech-in-noise perception, psychosocial benefits and listening skills.
The NDIA said: “The review’s role and responsibility is to provide expert opinion on appropriate pricing for art and music therapy, on the basis of existing evidence as to whether the music and art therapy will be, or is likely to be, effective and beneficial for participants, having regard to current good practice.
“For evidence-based therapy to be funded through the NDIS, there needs to be evidence that the therapy helps participants improve or maintain their functional capacity in areas such as language and communication, personal care, mobility and movement, interpersonal interactions, functioning (including psychosocial functioning) and community living."
Findings are due around March 2025.
The University of Queensland team said it was extremely gratifying to be recognised. Leaders said the team works with people with hearing loss at all stages of the research process to make sure the research they do is important and relevant.
“We also work closely with government, industry and clinical partners to reduce the impact of hearing loss, focusing on
Ear Science CEO Associate Professor Sandra Bellekom said Dr Eikelboom's ability to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and evolving patient needs made him a standout in the field, contributing significantly to work at Ear Science and Lions Hearing Clinics. Dr Eikelboom, a UWA Adjunct Professor, said the accolade reflected collective efforts of the team.
The Therapeutics Goods Administration (TGA) has approved Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 for use as hearing aids in Australia but its Hearing Aid Feature (HAF) is not yet available here until Apple updates software.
The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care classified the HAF as a medical device class IIa on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) on 17 December 2024.
An Apple spokesperson confirmed the feature cannot be used in Australia until Apple updates software for the region. “Receiving product approval from the TGA on our Hearing Test and Hearing Aid Feature on AirPods Pro 2 is an important first step toward making these features available in Australia,” Apple told HPA on 14 January 2024.
“We are working through
the other necessary steps to make these experiences available as soon as possible; feature availability will be via a software update.”
Apple said it was “looking forward to making these features available in many regions around the world as soon as possible and was navigating local medical device guidelines in each region, which can be associated with different timelines and requirements”.
A public summary of the ARTG entry said the HAF’s intended purpose was an OTC software-only mobile medical application used with compatible wearable electronic products to amplify sound for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing impairment.
The FDA authorised Apple’s HAF as the first OTC hearing aid software device in September 2024.
World first regenerative cell therapy to replace damaged sensory cells in the inner ear, aiming to restore hearing, is expected to be tested in clinical trials in the UK in 2025.
Rinri Therapeutics said its lead product, Rincell-1, aimed to replace damaged auditory neurons with regenerated auditory neurons, re-establishing nerve connections in the cochlea and reversing neural hearing loss.
It said the therapy aimed to restore nerve connections between the inner ear and brain, offering “a groundbreaking treatment for severe age-related hearing loss and auditory neuropathy” and “revolutionise treatment for hearing loss”.
Rinri Therapeutics, a spinout company of the University of Sheffield, announced on 13 November 2024 that it had developed an innovative surgical method to deliver the therapy directly to the auditory nerve which connects the inner ear to the brain.
The technique, published in Nature journal Scientific Reports was developed as
a safe and minimally invasive way to deliver treatments to the auditory nerve. It will be used in Rinri’s upcoming first human trial for Rincell-1.
The company said 90% of people with hearing loss have sensorineural hearing loss caused by damage to sensory cells in the cochlea. Damage to one type of these sensory cells, the auditory neurons, cannot currently be treated, it said.
Its first target is regeneration of auditory neurons which transmit signals from the cochlea to the brain. The treatment targets the potential of stem cells.
“At Rinri we make auditory progenitors from stem cells; these are the early forms of the mature sensory cells in the inner ear,” Rinri Therapeutics said. “Our data shows that when our therapeutic progenitor cells are delivered to the inner ear, they have the capability to become mature auditory neurons and re-establish nerve connections in the cochlea and reverse neural hearing loss.”
Rinri said the cells were the first
Rinri is targetting regeneration of auditory neurons which transmit signals from the cochlea to the brain via the auditory pathway. Image: Jitendra Jadhav/ stock.adobe.com.
functionally restorative human auditory sensory cells, using progenitor cells that can mature into functional auditory neurons. In preclinical studies, the cells reversed hearing loss and improved the hearing threshold by ~40%, which Rinri said were “strong preclinical results showing safety and effectiveness”.
Working with ENT surgeons internationally, the company said it modelled a safe and secure surgical access route to the central core of the cochlea, where the cell therapies must be delivered.
The University of Sheffield’s Professor Marcelo Rivolta led development of the technology which he said sought to “reverse sensorineural hearing loss through the repair of the damaged cytoarchitecture in the inner ear”. Previously, accessing these nerves required highly invasive surgery, as they were located deep within the skull.
The treatment was developed using Rinri’s OSPREY platform, which creates ready-to-use regenerative cell therapies.
The latest round of NHMRC grants will fund brain stimulation treatment for tinnitus, and novel otitis media therapies including gel medication to prevent repeat grommet surgery.
The slow-release gel-based medicine, delivered during a child’s first grommet surgery, aims to target persistent bacteria that hide in biofilm in their ears and eradicate the underlying infection.
A third grant will fund precision medicine for chronic suppurative otitis media using bacteriophages, natural predators of bacteria which are everywhere including the nose, skin and gut.
Health Minister Mr Mark Butler announced the National Health and Medical Research Council Ideas Grants scheme (NHMRC) recipients on 17 December 2024.
Flinders University Professor Raj Shekhawat will receive $2.23 million for his novel tinnitus management project combining brain stimulation and hearing aids with genetic and epigenetic biomarkers.
“This research proposal aims to investigate the use of HD-tDCS (high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation) and innovative hearing aid
programming to manage tinnitus and develop personalised treatment,” he said.
Prof Shekhawat, Dean of Research in the College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, is leading the research in collaboration with the Bionics Institute, Melbourne and The University of Sydney’s Kolling Institute.
Kolling Institute Professor of Ménière disease and Neuroscience, Jose Antonio Lopez-Escamez, said the grant was the result of a joint venture to create an Australian Tinnitus Consortium combining academia and industry expertise to bring advanced precision medicine to patients with tinnitus.
UWA senior research Fellow, Dr Ruth Thornton, will receive $1.39 million for her Blitz-OM project to make a one-drop anti-biofilm medicine to treat recurrent and chronic otitis media (OM), preventing repeat grommet surgery. She will lead a team of researchers from The Kids Research Institute Australia, UWA and CSIRO.
“We're developing this product so it will be able to be given during surgery, where we expect it to break down the biofilm, allowing antibiotics to work and preventing the need for repeat grommet surgery,” she said.
University of Adelaide director of research
Dr Ruth Thornton (from left), Professor Raj Shekhawat and Professor Sarah Vreugde. Images: Ruth Thornton, Flinders University, Sarah Vreugde.
in the Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Professor Sarah Vreugde, will receive $1.99 million to develop a novel precision medicine approach for chronic suppurative otitis media.
“We will isolate the relevant bacteria that cause this disease in various communities and define which bacteria are responsible for this disease. We will then develop a treatment using bacteriophages, i.e. viruses of bacteria and test their safety and effectiveness in the lab and in vivo.”
Earlier in 2024, Associate Professor Valerie Sung from the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute received an NHMRC grant of $1.42 million to investigate population approaches for prevention, diagnosis and management of childhood deafness. It will help fund development of the Australian National Child Hearing Health Outcomes Registry.
Audiology Australia (AudA) has developed a free online training module to help audiologists and other hearing professionals nationwide improve their understanding of culturally responsive hearing care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The video arms participants with practical tools and approaches they can implement immediately to elevate their practice. These include how to ask meaningful questions, practise deep listening, the art of taking client history, respectfully exploring test results and how to create a culturally safe space.
Other topics include the importance of asking clients whether they are Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, and alignment of parent and caregiver concerns with clinical results.
AudA CEO Ms Leanne Emerson said the module, developed by AudA members in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members and allies, addressed a gap in audiologist-led cultural training.
“This is the first audiology-led training opportunity that provides a broad overview of working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and families, including very relevant insights applicable in different settings across Australia,” she said. “It was designed to cater to the diverse needs of hearing health professionals.”
Emerson said the training would enhance practitioners’ ability to deliver care that meets the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients regardless of whether they work in the heart of the Northern Territory or central Melbourne.
While tailored towards audiologists, inclusion of speakers representing varied professional perspectives including audiologists in policy development, Aboriginal health practitioners and artists, ensured it was also applicable to ENTs and other hearing care professionals, said AudA president Dr Barbra Timmer. AudA members who complete the training are eligible for 1.5 CPD points (category 1.2)
Dr Emma Laird (front row, from left), Dr Yetta Abrahams, Lia Traves, Emma Ramsay, Dr Barbra Timmer. (Back row, from left) Dr Jessica Vitkovic, Sam Harkus, Catherine Hart, Luke Austin. Image: AudA.
appointed co-vice presidents and Ms Emma Ramsay was reappointed as treasurer.
Two new board directors were also appointed – Victorian audiologist and researcher Dr Emma Laird and WA-based early career audiologist, Mr Luke Austin.
Dr Timmer who has served on the board for six years and as president for five, said she was honoured by the show of trust from members and the board’s confidence in her leadership of AudA.
“I look forward to working with the board including our newly elected directors, to navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead for our profession as we continue to represent audiologists to shape the future of audiology, its regulation and place within allied health,” she said.
AudA CEO, Ms Leanne Emerson, said she
looked forward to working with Dr Timmer for another year and the new look AudA Board to support members and advance the profession by advocating for their profession.
“Barbra’s stewardship has played a key role in AudA’s growth and impact over the past five-years. Under her steadying and decisive leadership, we will continue to benefit from her extensive knowledge and understanding of the profession, audiology, and the broader hearing health sector,” Emerson said.
Dr Timmer said the board was excited to begin working with the two new directors to drive AudA’s new vision of growth, impact and recognition for the profession and Australian hearing health.
“We are delighted to welcome Luke and Emma to the Audiology Australia Board at a time of change and growth for the organisation, its members and the profession. Their expertise, skills, and unique perspectives will be an invaluable asset as we navigate new challenges,” Dr Timmer said.
AudA farewelled board directors, Dr Bec Bennett, who is the AudA 2025 Conference program chair, and Ms Cleon Kirby. It said both left a formidable legacy of impact and innovation that had benefitted AudA and the profession.
Dr Timmer thanked them for their "outstanding contributions" to the board, their colleagues and the profession.
ACAud inc. HAASA
CEO Miguel Diaz, (from left) Jan Bollard, Andrew Sharrock, Vijay Marimuthu, Cameron Dicieri, Kylie Dicieri, Mark Paton, Margeurite Rushworth, Janette Brazel and Helen King. Image: ACAud inc HAASA
Adelaide audiologist and audiometrist Ms Kylie Dicieri is the new chair of the Australian College of Audiology incorporating HAASA (ACAud inc. HAASA).
Dicieri takes over from former chair Ms Marguerite Rushworth who returns to the executive team as treasurer.
Dicieri will also be supported by Mr Stephen Dimitri in the vice-chair role, Mr Vijay Marimuthu as secretary, and board directors Ms Jan Pollard, Ms Helen King, Ms Janette Brazel, Mr Andrew Sharrock
and Mr Mark Paton.
At its annual general meeting on 22 November 2024, several of the board’s executive stepped down from their roles including former treasurer, Mr Cameron Dicieri and secretary, Mr Mark Paton.
“Our former board and executive team led ACAud inc. HAASA to a highly successful year filled with remarkable growth and achievement,” CEO Mr Miguel Diaz said.
“We now embrace a new board and executive team eager to continue 2024's successes forward into 2025.”
Kylie Dicieri is a third generation hearing professional, having qualified as an audiometrist in 2003 and an audiologist in 2009. She's held diagnostic audiologist and adult rehabilitation audiologist roles in SA and Queensland and owns an independent audiology practice in Adelaide.
More than one billion young people face the risk of permanent hearing loss due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds during recreational pastimes such as listening to music and video gameplay, the World Health Organization has warned.
On World Hearing Day 2025, the WHO will escalate action on this alarming issue. It will launch the WHO-ITU (International Telecommunication Union) Global standard for safe listening in video game play and sports.
It will also launch a school module on smart listening for inclusion into educational programs, and videos to teach children aged five to 10 about ear and hearing care.
World Hearing Day on 3 March each year aims to raise awareness on how to prevent deafness and hearing loss, plus promote ear and hearing care worldwide.
This year’s theme – Changing mindsets: Empower yourself to make ear and hearing care a reality for all! – is about taking steps to ensure good hearing health throughout life.
“By encouraging individuals to recognise the importance of ear and hearing health, this campaign aims to inspire them to change behaviour to protect their hearing from loud sounds and prevent hearing loss, check their hearing regularly, use hearing devices if needed, and support those living with hearing loss,” the WHO says.
“Empowered individuals can drive change within themselves and in society at -large.”
The WHO says many cases of hearing loss can be avoided by adopting safe listening and good hearing care practices.
The American Academy of Pediatrics previously advised that children and teenagers were increasingly exposed to noise health risks through earbuds and headphones, and a survey found young children were also at risk.
The academy says children should “use headphones and earbuds with caution”. Its policy statement on preventing excessive noise exposure in infants, children and adolescents says, “the most prevalent exposure encountered is likely to be from personal listening devices (PLDs)”.
“Excessive and/or prolonged exposure to high volumes can result in hearing loss, tinnitus, and/or hyperacusis. Children and youth often have excessive exposures through PLDs.”
It says noise exposure is a paediatric issue because of susceptibility of the developing auditory system and at extreme levels, can lead to irreversible hearing loss along with other negative health consequences. “Since children’s ear canals are much smaller than adults, perceived sound levels are intensified, increasing their vulnerability to noise damage,” it says.
Risk of hearing damage is linked to volume and duration of noise exposure, and over a prolonged period, noise above 70 decibels such as an audio device at full volume, a lawnmower or hair dryer may start to damage hearing.
The academy says several studies confirm hearing loss is common in children, adolescents, and young adults with data suggesting one in six high school students have evidence of hearing loss and noise exposure is a likely contributor in some.
“Many manufacturers claim to limit the volume of headphones to 85 decibels but some headphones can produce volumes high enough to be hazardous to hearing in minutes. Although many have volume-reduction features, some have design flaws allowing children to bypass them.”
One study found 60% of adolescents and young adults exceeded the maximum recommended daily noise dose, particularly in the presence of background noise, which often resulted in the user increasing volume.
Macquarie University Hearing (MUH) will again celebrate World Hearing Day (WHD) on 3 March 2025 with an event focusing on age-related hearing loss.
Ms Michele Nealon, MUH coordinator and WHD convenor, says the university had a great turnout for its 2024 WHD celebrations and hoped to repeat the success in 2025.
“We’re expecting 200 to 250 visitors and representatives from 17 community organisations, technology and service providers,” she says.
“The event will cover all aspects of hearing services, assistive technology, community engagement and research.
“The celebration will serve as a gathering for the public, colleagues, clinical practitioners, researchers, and policymakers. It draws a shining light on hearing health and offers a chance for people to gather under one roof.
“Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with diverse organisations and individuals from the d/Deaf and hard of hearing community.”
People can attend panel discussions, meet audiologists and have hearing screening by registering on the day, see demonstrations of assistive listening technologies, and participate in discussions with researchers about their projects.
The program starts at 9.30am. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Medicine and Health) Professor Patrick McNeil will introduce the NSW Governor Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC and her husband Mr Dennis Wilson. Mr Chris Tobin will perform the Welcome to Country.
Panel discussions will include people with age-related hearing loss, and people with lived experience will discuss policy issues. There will be a free barbecue lunch.
Registrations are now open for the event at Macquarie University Australian Hearing Hub, Wallumattagal campus, Macquarie Park. There are car spaces on campus, regular buses and an on-campus train station. For information or to register see https://bit.ly/WHD2025
TOP: L-R, WHD 2024 panel discussion, facilitator Dr Caitlin Barr, Michele Nealon, Professor Patrick McNeil, Joshua Sealy, Nomiki Lau and an Auslan interpreter.
BELOW, L-R, at the Macquarie University Hearing event Professor Philip Newall, Kymm Smith, Sue Walters, Ann Porter AM; The exhibition space for World Hearing Day (WHD), Australian Hearing Hub 2024.
Australia’s Deaf community is facing a significant shortage of Auslan interpreters nationwide, according to Deaf Connect.
About 16,000 Australians use Auslan (Australian Sign Language) every day according to the 2021 Census. However, there are only 700 accredited Auslan interpreters, and even fewer trainers to teach Auslan to students.
That leaves a significant gap, and Deaf Connect CEO Mr Brett Casey says that a national approach is needed to address the shortage and bolster numbers of Auslan teachers, interpreters and translators to meet demand.
Deaf Connect is the largest, whole-of-life service provider and social impact organisation for Deaf, Deafblind and Hard of hearing Australians. It is also the nation’s largest provider of Auslan classes as well as qualification courses (RTO #41192).
The organisation delivers programs online nationwide and face-to-face in the ACT, NSW, NT, Queensland, SA and WA. Over 6,500 students learned Auslan via accredited and non-accredited training pathways at Deaf Connect last financial year.
Melbourne Polytechnic, which recently celebrated a decade of delivering Auslan courses, along with Deaf Connect and the Victorian Government have all made significant strides to address this workforce shortage.
To improve access to Auslan skills and qualifications, in 2023 the Victorian Government added the Diploma of Auslan, Diploma of Interpreting (Auslan) and Advanced Diploma of Interpreting (Auslan) to its list of free TAFE programs. This aimed to make Auslan education more accessible to Victorians across the state and bolster the interpreter pipeline.
“We need an action plan from the Australian Government to address the shortage. This will ensure an ongoing strategy to attract more people to the profession and retain more Auslan teachers in the workforce.”
Similarly, for Auslan teachers, the roles for a native Auslan user to teach sign language are expanding – from teaching students studying to be interpreters, to increased demand for Auslan teachers in
“Auslan should be taught by native Auslan users, and there are simply not enough teachers for the ideal demand,” Casey says. “The demand for interpreters far outweighs supply and even medical appointments can sometimes be difficult to source interpreters for.”
Accessibility needs of deaf students in schools are also an element of this challenge. In addition to interpreters being required in primary and secondary classrooms, universities also add to this demand –significantly impacting the pool of available professionals.
In June 2024, Deaf Connect signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Melbourne Polytechnic to pave the way for enhanced collaboration. Casey says some of the greatest challenges facing Australia’s Deaf community in the future would come from increasing workforce training, sustainability and growth. Key focus areas of the MOU include Auslan training and workforce development.
“Our organisations engage with similar cohorts within the wider Deaf community,” he says. “This MOU provides us with the opportunity to explore various service delivery options, including accredited training in Auslan and Auslan translations, thereby enhancing the Auslan workforce.
“All these professions – Auslan teachers, interpreters and translators –require investment in that pipeline to bolster numbers into the future.”
Deaf Connect and Melbourne Polytechnic entered the agreement to share information on how they can support the pipeline and look at service delivery options to address this in the future.
“The introduction of the NDIS drastically changed the landscape for the Deaf community when it came to how and when they could access an Auslan interpreter – significantly increasing demand,” Casey adds.
“The training investment in a new interpreter is five years, across multiple diplomas and entrance exams – and that is before any on-the-job training and improvements which would qualify them for more complex appointments.”
From 2026, a new initiative in NSW will allow primary and secondary school students to have the option to learn Auslan as part of the school curriculum, from kindergarten to year 10.
Decisions about teaching Auslan will be made by schools and education sectors in consultation with the Deaf community. “This curriculum is a significant step towards inclusivity and bridging communication gaps,” says Deaf Children Australia.
Casey says Toowong State School in Queensland is a great example of teaching Auslan to all children, deaf and hearing. “When visitors go to the school, sometimes they can’t tell the difference between deaf and hearing students as they all sign so fluently,” he says.
However, he says teaching Auslan to all students does not automatically equate to inclusive education and is part of the bigger solution.
“True inclusivity means providing deaf students with genuine access to education in Auslan, not just teaching it as a subject to hearing students,” Casey explains. “A truly inclusive model would include hybrid options or schools that incorporate strategies to deliver education in Auslan and English, creating more inclusive environments for deaf students.
“We need an action plan from the Australian Government to address the shortage. This will ensure an ongoing strategy to attract more people to the profession and retain more Auslan teachers in the workforce.”
SERAY LIM'S parents escaped Cambodia’s murderous Khmer Rouge regime when she was in her mother’s womb. The Melbourne audiologist is now involved in charity work educating rural Cambodians about ear health, providing hearing tests, scholarships and helping fundraise to build schools. She also hopes to help establish an audiology/ENT service in a local children’s hospital.
Her parents might have fled Cambodia under the tyrant Pol Pot when she was a baby, but things have come full circle for Ms Seray Lim who is making pilgrimages back to the region to help rural Cambodians.
Lim was quite nervous when her research for a volunteer trip to Cambodia in 2024 revealed she would be working in an area that had been littered with land mines under the Khmer Rouge regime which was responsible for the genocide of millions.
At the same time, the Pailin region, which is famous for rubies and sapphires, intrigued her along with its Kola ethnic group whose noodles are among her favourite dishes. She was reassured the school where she would provide audiology services was in an area cleared of mines.
“Land mines were discovered before Pailin primary school was built on an area of two hectares. The region is huge and is not being used to its fullest capacity as the risk is still there,” Lim says. “Before the school was built there was no school; now more than 300 students attend.”
Lim was born in a refugee camp in Thailand and arrived in Australia with her Cambodian mother at just five months of age.
All her life she has wanted to give back and she is doing just that despite the demands of running her own practice, Arches Audiology in the south-east Melbourne suburbs of Mulgrave and Churchill.
“I’m grateful in a way that I was born in a refugee camp,” Lim says. “My mum walked from Cambodia while heavily pregnant with me to the Thai-Cambodia border during the Pol Pot regime.
“My father left for Australia first, as his older brother was already studying in Australia, and he was able to get my mum out of Cambodia at the earliest opportunity. My father’s parents were business owners and they sent my father away knowing what their fate was and that they wanted to save their son.
“I participated in the Oxfam 100km Trailwalker Challenge because I wanted to know a bit of what my mum went through: her strength motivates me.”
Lim chose audiology as it combines her love of helping people, building social connections and technology advancements. She worked as an administrative assistant in an audiology clinic while studying at The University
of Melbourne and despite being offered a job on graduation, decided to kick off her career in outback Australia.
During two years in the Northern Territory she did 20 outreach trips to remote areas, delivering hearing care to Indigenous Australians. Work ranged from diagnosing hearing loss in infants to testing for audiory processing disorder but it was the exposure to health promotion activities and preventative healthcare that made her feel she could make a difference as an audiologist.
“That work really informed my future decisions,” she recalls. “I’d always wanted to give back to society and our communities. I’m passionate about helping Cambodians and our First Nations people.”
After almost 20 years’ practising, Lim continues these links today with several trips a month to Sale in country Victoria to deliver a ‘Healthy Ears, Better Hearing, Better Listening’ clinic day at Ramahyuck District Aboriginal Corporation, a service she has provided for seven years.
After her NT work, she worked for Hearservice, (now Expression Audiology) and Dianella Community Health Centre. In 2015 she went to Cambodia for a Planet Wheeler Foundation project with audiologist and friend Ms Sowmya Rao. Lonely Planet Publications’ founders, Maureen and Tony Wheeler, established the foundation to provide grants to alleviate poverty in countries including Cambodia.
Building schools, checking hearing
Lim started her own practice in 2019 after 11 years in the not-for-profit sector.
In 2024 she returned to Cambodia after a chance meeting with former ABC journalist Mrs Seda Douglas who had worked in Cambodia and co-founded Save Cambodian Children Fund Australia (SCCFA) 21 years ago.
“The charity’s main aim is building schools to provide opportunities and support to Cambodian children who are unable to access schooling and offer educational resources and support to disadvantaged youth to enable them to realise their full potential," Lim says. "It also organises events or activities that help the community in Australia connect with children in rural Cambodia and to find funds for education development projects."
LEFT:
at the Pailin School. The Australian volunteers handed out certificates of commendation to students who displayed excellence and conscientiousness.
It takes years to fundraise and build a school, and so far, SCCFA has built Pailin Primary School and Phnom Chambang Primary School in Battambang with a third in progress in Kratie Province. “Rotary Club of Springvale City, which I’m a member of, has fundraised for the charity for many years,” Lim explains.
SCCFA and the Rotary Club of Springvale City fundraised for the Kratié school after the local government asked for assistance following community requests. Money raised through Rotary is matched by grants from Rotary International Global Grants.
Lim went to Cambodia with two co-founders of SCCFA, Mrs Seda Douglas and Mrs Saruon Preston, and Rotary Club of Springvale City co-president, Ms Cathy Jackson.
Despite knowing there was no electricity at the school, she took her audiometer, tympanometer and two laptops. “I conducted hearing tests and identified significant hearing loss in teachers and parents. Surprisingly, the children who were referred because of teacher or parental concerns passed,” she recalls.
“One adult said that when he was a child and had discharging ears, perfume was used as a treatment, and I heard that a few times. There is a need for health education because the kids' ear health and hearing levels are mostly good but there is significant middle ear problems and hearing loss amongst the adults.”
Lim trained volunteers in basic ear care so they could provide education sessions. She plans to return to Pailin in April 2025 with hearing aids for those diagnosed and hopes to explore sustainable solutions for hearing aid distribution and maintenance with an option being donated hearing aids from Rotary’s Recycled Sound program.
She's also investigating the possibility of introducing Auslan or another sign language to support a local deaf child. “The school principal Hoem Lihor invited us to plant trees while we were there telling us to not forget to come back to visit again,”she adds.
Long-term goals include training local high school students in health promotion and audiology, with telehealth training a possibility. “The ultimate plan is for high school students to develop skills so they can return to their own communities and utilise them,” she explains.
Rotary Clubs of Box Hill-Burwood, Waverley and Springvale City fundraise for SeeBeyondBorders, an educational Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) in Cambodia aiming to improve learning for children by focusing on training teachers and systemic change. Interact Clubs for teenagers at
“I’d always wanted to give back to society and our communities. I’m passionate about helping Cambodians and our First Nations People.”
Kingswood College and PLC Melbourne also support the program.
“We spent an afternoon at SeeBeyondBorders and met some of the young women who were undertaking training,” Lim says. She hopes to provide training or support to participants to increase hearing loss and auditory processing disorder awareness in the classroom.
“We also visited five girls at Ptea Teuk Dong NGO who were recipients of Scholarships for Higher Education (SHE), supported by SCCFA. They’re in their final year of study and myself, Rotary and SCCFA are thinking about the next steps to empower them and increase their education and career choices while accommodating their need to return to their families in rural provinces,” Lim says. SCCFA, through Rotary, also fundraises for Angkor Hospital for Children which has no audiology or ENT services. Lim plans to visit the hospital in April and hopes to set up a sustainable service from a group of audiologists, GPs and an ENT surgeon who are interested in volunteer work in Cambodia.
She's liaised with University of Melbourne lecturer in global audiology, Dr Chris Waterworth who is co-designing practical resources and online audiology training models in Tanzania, Cambodia and Tonga, in collaboration with Rotary International and The University of California, San Francisco.
“It’s comforting to know there’s a pathway for interested teachers and students in Pailin and Battambang to access quality ear health and hearing training,” she adds.
Seray Lim Arches Audiology
Lim loves being an audiologist. “I constantly find myself in awe and inspired by current and past researchers, entrepreneurs and innovators in our industry, as well as the people we serve,” she says."I’m looking for people to volunteer services or time to improve the lives of rural Cambodians by first improving their ear and hearing health status." Other ways people can help are to donate to SCCFA via its website or attend an SCCFA fundraiser event. People interested in being involved or joining the Cambodia Interest Group can email contact@archesaudiology.com.au. "I hope to inspire people to look beyond our borders and also beyond the audiometer," Lim says.
MEREDYTH HAYNES transitioned from nursing to audiometry after being diagnosed with hearing loss. The move has changed her life for the better, seeing her become the director of three clinics.
Swapping careers in middle-age is no easy feat but for audiometrist, Mrs Meredyth Haynes, 52, it’s been a game-changer that’s enabled her to jointly run three audiology businesses simultaneously across suburban Perth.
In fact, the mum-of-two’s hard work and enthusiasm for her new vocation led her to becoming a partner across the trio of Specsavers Audiology stores in Perth in just 19 months.
While her hearing loss was the trigger to change careers, it was her patients who sparked the move to Specsavers after she had worked four years in the profession.
"I had several clients at the previous clinic I worked at say they could get the same hearing aids for a lower price at Specsavers,” she says.
“Then, one day a client called to say he liked having me as his practitioner, but he couldn’t justify it anymore. He said his new audiologist, at Specsavers, suggested I consider the switch, and he gave me her phone number.”
Since introducing audiology services in 2017, Specsavers has offered audiologists and audiometrists the chance to become business owners within its established network of optical stores. With a mission to change lives, the company provides customers with affordable, accessible hearing solutions featuring the latest technology — all at everyday low prices.
Haynes sat on it for six months, read up on the topic and thought this “sounds too good to be true”.
She met that Specsavers audiologist and pursued the opportunity.
She put in an online inquiry to a Specsavers audiology relationship manager, who acts “like a business mentor”.
“He was very experienced in running businesses and after an initial online interview we met. It was quite a lengthy process to get approved for partnership,” she recalls.
“I wanted something close to where I lived and was given a few options but
I chose the bigger business opportunity because this is my retirement plan and I’m building my shares and the business value, so I’ve got a nest egg for when I’m ready to retire.”
Haynes adds that, in her role, she’s not only working as a hearing practitioner but is running a business. Organisation and efficiency are key, otherwise the practices won’t be sustainable.
“What I like about Specsavers is that being a partner, I earn a lot more than I did just working a job for somebody else who was earning a lot of money,”
“Even more important than that is we can get people into top of the range hearing aids at less than half of what they would pay elsewhere. We can get really good outcomes for people with hearing loss because they can get better hearing aids than what they could otherwise afford.”
Originally from New Zealand, Haynes arrived in Perth in 1994, after completing her Registered Nursing training. From 1997 she worked in coronary and intensive care and enjoyed the critical thinking involved in critical care nursing.
But a narrow escape after a long shift changed the trajectory of her working life.
“I was driving home after a 12-hour night duty shift and was wondering why someone was driving on my side of the road then I realised I was on their side of the road,” she says.
“I went home and said to my husband, ‘I’ve got to do a daytime job where I can have holidays away with the family.
“My hearing impairment had probably started then because I always struggled to hear my husband who has a soft voice.”
She soon began working in medical sales selling devices to parents for their children.
“I was forced to do something about my hearing when I became aware I had a significant problem,” she recalls. “I was training young children and their families and had to ask the kids to repeat themselves multiple times. I realised it was serious and was impacting my work.”
Nine years ago, at age 43, Haynes saw an audiologist friend who diagnosed sensorineural hearing loss.
“My parents wore hearing aids, my father was a builder, and we were always renovating houses, so I spent a lot of time around chainsaws and had a lot of noise exposure as a child,” she recalls.
“The audiologist said it would be $2,000 for basic entry level hearing aids and recommended a better version but I couldn’t even afford the cheaper pair so he fitted me with an old pair. It was enough to make me realise I had serious hearing loss.”
During a conversation with her audiologist, she admitted she didn’t like her sales job. She also missed the patient interaction that came with nursing. It led to a suggestion about pursuing audiometry.
Haynes investigated and landed a job at a hearing clinic as an administrative assistant while studying a Diploma of Audiometry online after hours for two
“From the day I opened my doors, I’ve been pretty much fully booked at every store which is incredible.”
Meredyth Haynes Specsavers
“I’m very happy as we think along the same lines, have the same work ethic, are aligned in our business strategy, the way we deal with customers and how we work clinically. If you’re working as a 50/50 partner, that’s essential,” Haynes says.
Lots of support
She’s also impressed by the amount of support from Specsavers.
“There’s no way I would have been capable or had the know-how to start a business myself, it would have been too much of a risk but coming on board you have the security of a base salary which gives you confidence to take the next step,” she says.
“We have support from business experts including finance, human resources, marketing, and product specialists who help drive new customers into our stores and ensure we have a great product portfolio for those customers. From the day I opened my doors, I’ve been pretty much fully booked at every store which is incredible.”
Specsavers also provides its partners with access to a team of audiologists within its Professional Services Support Team who they can remotely consult with and refer to on things such as checking referrals to the Hearing Services Program non-routine category.
Haynes and Hiom have also invested in growing their business by bringing on employed clinicians and administration assistants, resources that are shared between their two locations.
Haynes says Specsavers recently added its own CPD education and provides internal support and training for her new employees. She now has one full-time assistant working across the three stores, as well as a part-timer, Ms Vanessa Libby, who has a background in a different industry and is developing her career in audiology.
“Vanessa used to take my blood and I asked if she’d thought about doing anything other than phlebotomy. She was studying medical science and I planted the audiology seed,” Haynes says. “I said she could work with me as an audiology assistant while studying audiology at university.
“Nine months later she emailed saying she was studying her Masters in Clinical Audiology. I offered her a job so she’s working part-time and will be a graduate audiologist for us.”
Haynes recalls speakers at a 2019 ACAud conference talking about normalising hearing.
“They said everybody regularly has their eyes tested and their blood pressure checked but no one routinely gets their hearing checked. We really need to normalise having a hearing test as part of your normal medical checkup every year or two," she says.
“At Specsavers, everyone over age 50 (in store for eye tests) is routinely offered a hearing screening, so we start picking up hearing loss early.”
It’s also about educating the public about their hearing, she adds, even if they’re not ready for or don’t need hearing aids.
She feels her hearing loss is an advantage in her career.
“I often tell people because it helps them. One thing that puts people off hearing aids is they think they’re enormous and everyone can see them, it’s part of the stigma associated with them.
“I say ‘I’m wearing hearing aids’, and they’re usually pretty gobsmacked as they can’t see them behind my hair. They look at me and say, ‘where are they?’, and I show them.
“I understand what they’re going through, how they’re feeling, what it sounds like and the annoying things, so I’ve got a balanced approach to guiding them through their hearing journey.”
Three of Australasia’s leading tinnitus practitioners – MYRIAM WESTCOTT, GRANT SEARCHFIELD AND MINI GUPTA – have spent decades between them helping patients, including the most complex cases. For Tinnitus Awareness Week (3-9 February), they shared their stories of persistence and hope.
“I’m living in hell. Can you save me?” These words from a distraught patient changed the trajectory of Ms Mini Gupta’s audiology career.
“I was sitting in my clinic and a distressed man who a doctor had referred walked in,” she recalls. “Those were the first words he said, and this is where it changed. I felt helpless because he’d come for help, yet I knew little about tinnitus.
“He said, ‘Don’t tell me I have to learn to live with it.’ Those words struck me deeply. I chose to listen, acknowledging his struggle, and it changed my path. That day, I committed to upskilling myself to better serve those facing auditory dysfunctions causing tinnitus.”
Gupta started reading journal articles about tinnitus and later completed a Fellowship in Tinnitus and Hyperacusis studies from Salus University. She learnt Tinnitus Retraining Therapy (TRT) from its founders, Americans Dr Pawel Jastreboff and Dr Margaret Jastreboff. Ironically, she brought the couple to Melbourne in February 2025 to lead their last training for 32 audiologists before retirement.
Eight years after her first tinnitus patient, Gupta has transformed countless lives, including Mr Damian Duke, who developed debilitating tinnitus after back surgery. Despite trying every available treatment, he found no relief. Desperate and emotionally drained, he discovered her Google reviews and sought help.
“He was in tears during his first appointment,” Gupta recalls. “He said, You’re my last hope Mini. If you can’t help me, my children will lose their father.
“Damian is now living a normal life and has done extremely well with tinnitus retraining therapy and continued cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with us at the clinic. His commitment to the treatment and follow up has been exceptional.”
Duke says: “It took over my life and I was at breaking point as no-one was able to help. Mini worked out the issue causing my tinnitus and a plan to treat it. Only tinnitus sufferers know what we are going through but I can honestly say this works and you will get your life back.”
Gupta emphasises the importance of providing hope with a plan for every patient. “About 60% who I see are suicidal and they’ve all been successfully treated,” she says. “By the time they come to me they’re often desperate and have tried many things.”
Gupta receives referrals from audiologists nationwide for opinion and management plans. An initial telehealth appointment involves assessment, counselling and advice for the referring audiologist on further investigations and a treatment plan.
If a situation is catastrophic, she requests patients come to see her.
“Patients often travel from interstate when telehealth is insufficient,” she says. “My clinical approach combines audiological practices with principles of neuroscience and psychotherapy to provide holistic care.”
Gupta did a Bachelor’s in Speech Therapy and Audiology, and a Master’s of Audiology in India before arriving in Australia in 2006. After passing her Audiology Australia exam here, she worked for Amplifon, Audika and The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital’s Cochlear Implant Clinic before starting her own practice in Mount Waverley, Melbourne in 2017.
She initially rented a room in a medical clinic and educated doctors that audiologists did more than prescribe hearing aids. The encounter with the first tinnitus patient was followed by ENT surgeon Dr Ryan De Freitas suggesting she focus on tinnitus.
Gupta believes more audiologists should specialise in the condition but lack of Medicare and government funding for assessment and treatment is a barrier for patients.
She emphasises that traditional coping strategies for tinnitus often involve masking the sound, which can worsen the condition. According to Tinnitus Retraining Therapy, tinnitus should never be masked but rather integrated with therapeutic sounds at a balanced level, she says.
The therapy sound should never exceed the volume of the tinnitus, allowing the brain to perceive it as neutral. Gupta insists that being aware of tinnitus alongside therapeutic sound is essential for achieving long-term relief.
Her tinnitus treatment focuses on counselling and educating patients about ear anatomy, tinnitus generation, and how the brain processes sound and emotions like fear. “TRT teaches the brain that tinnitus is a neutral signal that doesn’t deserve attention,” she explains.
"I use hearing devices to program sound therapy using TRT protocols which provide relief from tinnitus annoyance. It's like taking paracetamol to reduce pain perception." The therapy, based on neurophysiology, adjusts sound levels according to tinnitus severity and hearing loss.
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) dysfunction can contribute to tinnitus due to its anatomical proximity to the ear and Eustachian tube, she adds. “The TMJ joint, located anterior to the ear canal, is functionally linked to the muscles controlling the Eustachian tube and surrounding structures,”she says.
“Even minor alterations in TMJ function can disrupt the balance of these
systems, leading to conditions such as Eustachian tube dysfunction and middle ear issues, which may trigger or exacerbate tinnitus.”
During the Covid-19 pandemic, Gutpa’s workload increased significantly.
“Many patients had nasal congestion and blocked Eustachian tubes,” she says. “At its peak my team was seeing 23 to 25 tinnitus patients per week, compared to seven to eight pre-Covid.”
Melbourne audiologist with 30 years’ experience in tinnitus and hyperacusis, Ms Myriam Westcott, emphasises a holistic, personalised psychological approach and says self-management and collaboration with other healthcare professionals are important to manage tinnitus effectively.
Westcott developed an interest in hyperacusis at her first workplace, Victoria’s Deaf Society, where she noticed underdiagnosis of hyperacusis in tinnitus patients and lack of consensus and collaboration in hyperacusis understanding.
“With tinnitus, not only are we looking at the central auditory pathway, we’re looking at how that intersects with psychological and somatic pathways because tinnitus is not just caused by hearing loss but can be triggered by stress,” she says.
“Tinnitus neuroscience has shown that stress held in the head, neck and jaw musculature can cause or aggravate tinnitus at both a somatic and neurological level.”
A minority with adjustment disorder however don’t have resources to adjust psychologically to tinnitus.
Tinnitus can become enhanced by psychological aspects of its perception.
“Most people absorb tinnitus into their sense of normal and get on with their lives. However, tinnitus onset/aggravation can be highly stressful or even traumatic – they’re the patients I most commonly see, who need strong support.
“It’s important for them to learn not to view it as an alien imposition or worry something’s wrong with their brain but see it as a naturally occurring phenomenon that can be managed,” Westcott says.
“We need more clinicians doing tinnitus work, and to enable that, we must have frameworks that build on skills audiologists have that don’t place too much burden on them and enable them to manage clients through technology.”
Professor Grant Searchfield University of Auckland
Westcott had a holistic view of tinnitus and hyperacusis decades before patient-centred care was standard. Her colleagues Mr Ross Dineen and Ms Kate Moore at her practice DWM Audiology, known for treating challenging tinnitus and other complex cases, agreed on this approach.
“Looking at the patient holistically from a bio/psycho/social perspective has been an intuitive way in which I’ve worked. It’s viewed as patient-centred care today and means working in a multidisciplinary team with colleagues to get the best outcome for the patient,” she adds.
Westcott attends international conferences to keep up with the neuroscience and has developed close relationships with other clinicians, has lectured and led workshops, including at The University of Melbourne, and helped establish Tinnitus Australia.
Psychological approach, habituation and self-management
In Australia, few professions other than audiology specialise in tinnitus, she adds, whereas overseas, more ENTs, neurologists, psychologists and psychiatrists dive in.
“I trained in TRT and believe in its neurophysiological model, the role of the limbic system and use of low-level noise. But my approach is broader, personalised and interactive, focusing on evaluating the psychological aspects of the patient’s subconscious appraisal of the tinnitus sound.
“I believe psychological approaches are more effective because they’re personalised and more interactive. That doesn’t negate that everything can work together – in my view, it’s not an either-or approach.”
have that personalised understanding, they don’t really know what they’re dealing with,” she adds.
She says TRT categorises patients via intensity of their response and whether they have hyperacusis or a hearing loss. “It’s not really explored what those psychological connections might be for the individual patient, and I think it needs to be.
"Most have seen an audiologist for hearing tests. An explanation is important because apart from being distressed, many are bewildered.
“Once patients understand their pathways, it’s deeply reassuring and they know what they’re dealing with. My approach is to spend time discussing how they might self-manage changing those pathways to help their brain view the tinnitus as a boring sound, and to strip back enhancement of the tinnitus experience because of stress and distress.”
For tinnitus enhanced by muscular stress, Westcott refers to a physiotherapist who understands those somatic pathways, and a psychologist to support tinnitus related distress.
“People need psychological support of an intense reaction to achieve a satisfactory level of tinnitus habituation,” she adds.
Audiological strategies she uses to support habituation include using sound therapeutically, personalised to cater for any associated hyperacusis.
“Psychological strategies include reducing tinnitus vigilance or monitoring.
“I curate information at a personal level so patients can take on the self-management responsibility of driving their recovery or habituation pathway, with ongoing support available as needed,” Westcott says. She works online seeing tinnitus and hyperacusis patients from around Australia and the world. This includes people with acoustic shock and tensor tympani syndrome, which she is a world expert in, and whose symptoms have an application in tinnitus and hyperacusis.
Some are referred for an online, extended program to Tasmanian audiologist and meditation teacher Ms Dani Fox, who runs a tinnitus clinic. “I have no problem working collaboratively with colleagues who have something to offer that I might not,” Westcott adds.
She also recommends Tune Out self-guided program, a cognitive behavioural approach and practical tools for under $77. Developed by Australian psychologists experienced in tinnitus, Ms Paula Sieradzki and Ms
Anna Kittle, it’s for patients who’ve had audiological and medical assessment or intervention and require further support.
If patients are suicidal, Westcott advises alerting their GP ASAP. Clinicians’ mental health can also be at stake so they should ensure self-care.
“Audiologists often under-rate their counselling abilities and their ability to support an anxious patient,” she says.
“Restoring hearing through hearing aids can have a profound benefit on reducing tinnitus awareness but not necessarily make it go away. By boosting external sounds to where they should be heard, it can rather nicely drown out the internal sound. That auditory stimulation can be beneficial at a neurological level and may influence tinnitus emergence.”
She criticises limited training opportunities for audiologists, and advises audiologists to go as far as they feel comfortable, referring to experts if they cannot provide a service.
Westcott says while the effect of placebo needs to be considered in any treatment (tinnitus has roughly a 40% placebo response rate), there are potential benefits of bimodal neuromodulation combining sound and electrical stimulation.
Also dedicating his career to tinnitus is Professor Grant Searchfield, University of Auckland Academic Head Audiology, and an audiologist with 30 years’ experience.
“I was working at a public ENT hospital and did a lot of hearing tests but many patients said they wanted assistance with 'the sound in their ears,” he recalls.
“Like most graduates I had a bit of an idea about tinnitus but not a great deal of ability to put it into effective practice.”
A presentation on tinnitus at university sparked interest in research and in 1995 he attended a tinnitus conference in the US and started making connections. He started a tinnitus clinic with the support of an experienced ENT specialist.
“Many audiologists are reluctant to practise in this area because they fear managing some of the emotional characteristics that people with tinnitus may have but for me that has been a relatively small proportion of the people I’ve seen so I think it’s a largely unfounded fear,” he says.
“While some aspects remain consistent, such as audiologists’ reluctance to treat tinnitus, there has been significant growth in available tools and approaches. This evolution includes the emergence of different approaches from nearly all hearing aids now having tinnitus management options to apps, online courses, clinicians being able to provide greater, more in-depth counselling, and increased advocacy,” Prof Searchfield says.
“With the growth of awareness comes a rise of misinformation on the internet though which increases the importance of education and appropriate counselling.”
Biggest breakthrough
therapies for the people that we see as no two tinnitus patients are the same”.
“What might work for one person, may not for another,” he adds. “It’s not a breakthrough like the internet or mobile phones but a much softer concept, and from that, I believe a lot of good is going to happen down the track.
“The need for personalised therapies involves tailoring treatments to individual needs. The clinicians’ role is to identify the right treatment.”
Prof Searchfield says he tells his students to be pragmatic, not dogmatic in the way they approach treatment. “They must keep their eyes and ears open to what the person is saying and how they’re reacting. We may get to the point where we can do testing and that will help us but until then we rely on clinicians’ soft skills.”
A multidisciplinary approach, referrals, and building a network of specialists are crucial for effective tinnitus management, he adds. He agrees about potential benefits of physiotherapy and massage for managing neck and jaw pain, which can impact tinnitus, stating there’s a strong neurophysiological link between input from the neck and jaw to the auditory system.
“It’s not unusual to see people who’ve had a neck injury develop tinnitus and if the injury is resolved, the tinnitus remains,” he adds.
Prof Searchfield emphasises the importance of asking about hearing, feelings, and neck or jaw pain during consultations. Audiologists can use the Tinnitus Sample Case History Questionnaire and the Tinnitus Functional Index for evaluation plus the Tinnitus Version of the COSI (Client Oriented Scale of Improvement) for counselling and goal setting, he adds.
“The secret ingredient is the clinician helping the person identify the right treatment or knowing alternatives if something is not working,” he says.
“My colleagues and I are developing machine learning (ML) tools to help clinicians personalise tinnitus treatments. They aim to predict treatment success based on demographic information, questionnaires and EEG (electroencephalogram to measure electrical activity in the brain) results. Early feedback on treatment effectiveness can mean adapting therapies as needed.”
A spinout company from the university, TrueSilence Therapeutics, formed and is launching its first version of an ML tinnitus tool in New Zealand in 2025.
It aims to guide clinicians in prescribing the best solution for each individual, making it sustainable and viable so it returns a profit.
“Early on, you might have a set of results, goals or impacts that tinnitus has on the individual, and demographic information such as age and gender which may be predictive of different treatment benefits,” he says.
“We’ve shown that we can predict responders and non-responders to some treatments via questionnaires and objective EEG.”
The tool aims for clinicians to tell patients they have a likelihood of success of 75% for this treatment, for example, versus another therapy. “When patients plateau on a treatment, or are not satisfied, the tool can direct them to another treatment that may act on a different aspect of the tinnitus, so they don’t provide a therapy that’s not going to work,” he explains.
Down the track he predicts therapy may adapt as it receives information that results are plateauing and treatment is losing effectiveness.
“The audiologist will still be the primary care manager but is expanding their ability to provide services. Most people they see will eventually have a hearing loss as well,” Prof Searchfield adds.
Another goal is to improve access to clinicians. “We need more clinicians doing tinnitus work, and to enable that, we must have frameworks that build on skills audiologists have that don’t place too much burden on them and enable them to manage clients through technology. This can reduce the workload of the clinician in a way that helps both parties.”
He predicts blood tests using blood-borne indicators may in future inform best treatment, and medications may be activated by personalised sound stimulation.
Westcott adds: “It’s enormously rewarding to feel that you’ve made a difference to somebody’s life. It’s been a huge process to commit to improving the understanding for patients, particularly the areas I consider poorly understood – the sound intolerance space – so having people breathe a sigh of relief and say, ‘Thank you, that was so helpful. I understand what’s happening and I know what to do now’ is huge."
Widex and MindEar are collaborating on a world–first program recently launched in Australia and New Zealand providing evidence–based solutions that support hearing care professionals to overcome the well-known barriers of tinnitus care.
Widex has a long history in prioritising tinnitus solutions and says the validity of its evidence-based Widex Zen Therapy (WZT) program is well established.
Feedback from hearing care professionals on provision of tinnitus care indicates supply of these services is complex. Clinical knowledge of the condition, time spent with patients, and the business model is often not financially rewarding.
“These are the three primary obstacles hearing care professionals (HCPs) frequently identify when addressing tinnitus services,” says Ms Geraldine Todd, Widex ANZ Sales Director.
“The tinnitus business model presents unique challenges, largely due to the lack of healthcare funding. Many clinicians face challenges dedicating resources to support tinnitus clients while ensuring the approach remains financially sustainable.
“The Widex approach to tinnitus care offers independent clinicians a unique opportunity to differentiate their clinics from the competition. That’s why Widex has partnered with MindEar to provide a structured program designed to help clinicians deliver scalable and affordable tinnitus management solutions.”
Widex and MindEar, both leaders in tinnitus care, have responded to the needs of busy clinicians who are eager to help tinnitus patients but struggle with the complexity and time demands of tinnitus care. They have collaborated to bring the MindEar Relief Program to clinicians in Australia and New Zealand.
“The MindEar program serves as an alternative for clinicians who may not wish to provide intensive tinnitus therapy themselves,” Todd says. “Since HCPs are not typically trained as psychologists or psychotherapists, MindEar complements their existing services and care, addressing this critical gap.”
“Effective tinnitus care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By combining innovative tools and structured support programs, we empower clinicians to make a meaningful difference for those suffering with tinnitus, while ensuring their business remains sustainable.”
Geraldine Todd Widex
The MindEar 12-week program in combination with the WZT approach provides effective tools, coping strategies and valuable knowledge to support patients managing tinnitus.
Clinicians who wish to offer tinnitus care independently can access a comprehensive range of Widex and Widex Zen Therapy (WZT) resources, along with structured support tools. The Widex approach to tinnitus follows a five-step program incorporating the four key elements of Widex Zen Therapy: counselling, amplification, fractal tones, and a relaxation strategy program. This is further supported by the availability of the Widex ZEN App and the inclusion of fractal tones in all levels of Widex hearing aid technology. WZT is backed by evidence-based research and offers an approach that helps individuals with practical strategies toward habituation.
“The use of fractal tones is unique to Widex. Fractal tones are a key feature of the WZT program and are specifically designed to help tinnitus sufferers by engaging the brain in a calming and non-intrusive manner,” Todd says.
“Widex WZT has a proven track record of success. At Widex, we understand that every patient is unique, and we are pleased to have partnered with MindEar to expand the solutions to support you and your tinnitus patients.”
MindEar evolved after co-founders Dr Matthieu Recugnat and audiologist/ neuroscientist Dr Fabrice Bardy began working together to provide accessible and affordable tinnitus management in a scalable way by addressing the siloed nature of existing treatments.
The MindEar app and programs combine the most evidence-based tinnitus management techniques, namely sound therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness and relaxation, and sleep management.
“MindEar helps individuals experiencing tinnitus to habituate faster by educating them on how to manage their tinnitus more effectively,” Todd says.
“The patient remains the responsibility of the clinic and MindEar provides a complementary and additional service.”
Dr Recugnat adds: “MindEar’s psychosocial approach has shown clinically significant improvements in Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI) scores in clinical trials. Additionally, two out of three patients who use MindEar achieve a clinically significant outcome after eight weeks of the program.”
The HCP provides initial audiological testing and with the client’s informed consent, refers the individual for the MindEar program.
Led by global tinnitus experts, MindEar facilitates a handover appointment between the client and the HCP. This is followed by a 12-week online education and coaching program. At the conclusion of the program a detailed follow-up report is provided to the HCP on the progress of the patient.
This new program includes six group sessions which cater to the individual’s needs while providing a sense of community. The sessions help patients learn about the most evidenced-based tinnitus management and coping techniques including sound therapy, CBT, relaxation and mindfulness.
Dr Recugnat highlights the benefits of group sessions. “The psychosocial sessions provide a safe environment for people to learn about those tools
and find personalised ways to use the coping mechanisms.
“That’s why we now offer group sessions in this program; it provides an effective way of doing the education necessary for changing the client's reaction to their tinnitus.
“Caring for auditory needs is also often required. With 70% of people with tinnitus estimated to have some degree of hearing loss, people with both can now be supported to reduce the severity of the tinnitus with a hearing aid combined with this program.”
Dr Recugnat, a biomedical engineer and hearing researcher, says researchers in hearing and tinnitus want to partner with clinicians to support clients experiencing tinnitus in a way that brings the most impact.
They also want to establish a model that fits with audiology businesses because it can be hard to provide tinnitus care when specialising in hearing aid provision.
“Everything we do at MindEar is rooted in scientific evidence,” he says. “We want this to work and be applied to customers as quickly as possible. It's hard to change clinical practice but if you partner with researchers, build it with them and involve them in the clinical practice, you have an opportunity to put more value into what you're doing for clients.
“By (audiologists) first checking for health and mental health red flags, we can identify if someone needs additional attention or a referral to an ENT specialist to address potential medical concerns.”
Subjective measures of success for individual and group sessions involve the use of validated questionnaires administered before and after the program, with the results and feedback shared with the audiologist. Qualitative data helps assess client engagement and highlights any issues requiring follow-up, such as potential concerns with their hearing aids.
"The client remains the audiologist’s customer; we simply support the clinician by providing the additional psychosocial element of tinnitus care that they may not have the time to address in the clinic," Dr Recugnat says.
“We know a combination of sound therapy, amplification if required, changing reaction through CBT, relaxation and mindfulness, is going to bring that person relief and eventually habituation to the tinnitus sounds; we know it’s a combination that works.
“The way we do it is educating people to understand how they should apply these tools to their lives and the tailoring is done in group sessions.”
When someone experiences tinnitus frequently, while we acknowledge that the sound is present, the real challenge comes from our reaction to it, Dr Recugnat explains.
“The reaction, like anything in life, becomes more and more negative, and that negativity makes you enter into a vicious cycle,” he adds.
As tinnitus is bothersome, it’s people’s reaction to that sound that causes the most long-term problems.
“If they can understand what it is and we can help them recognise that it's not threatening – our brain can work to put the noise in the background, a process known as habituation. It’s not a silver bullet, the sound is always there, but people can still lead fulfilling lives despite that sound.
“We want to give hope early on, provide a safe environment to bring back some positivity and give the tools to break that negative cycle. It’s about giving people back the control to their internal volume.”
Dr Recugnat says that because everyone is different, it's hard for clinicians to perform tinnitus treatment at scale as it takes time to find the right combination
Tinnitus affects up to 25% of the Australian population, yet only one in five people in this group seek medical attention, and fewer (about 4%) are referred to a hearing care professional, Widex says. At tinnitus onset, most begin their search for information and treatment options online.
for each person and help them understand what works for them.
Todd adds: “The degree of tinnitus disturbance varies greatly from client to client, as tinnitus can be constant, pulsatile, or intermittent. For those experiencing severe levels, daily assistance is often required, which is precisely what our Widex Zen Therapy (WZT) program provides.
“Widex recognises providing tinnitus care can be complex, time consuming, and often needs to be personalised to the individual. This new approach incorporating WZT plus the MindEar program is designed to address the current clinical and business challenges. And it goes further to help practitioners differentiate their clinical practice from their competition.”
Widex says its mission is to be the preferred choice for independent hearing care professionals across Australia and New Zealand. “For over 20 years, we have maintained a strong focus on tinnitus and were pioneers in introducing tinnitus features in all performance levels in our Widex hearing aids,” Todd adds. “We are confident that our program and therapy, backed by robust research, provides the ideal support for HCPs looking to assist individuals who are seeking help for their tinnitus.”
In November 2024, Widex and MindEar started the collaborative approach with workshops across Australia and New Zealand. These events attracted more than 120 enthusiastic HCPs eager to implement this innovative treatment for their patients. Initial feedback from HCPs and clients has been exceptionally positive, she says. "Many HCPs have already begun integrating the program into their practices with the support of the Widex team, who are dedicated to assisting independent HCPs in implementing this solution effectively," Todd says. "Effective tinnitus care doesn't have to be overwhelming. By combimimg innovative tools and structured support programs, we empower clinicians to make a meaningful difference for those suffering with tinnitus, while ensuring their business remains sustainable."
*Widex supported Tinnitus Awareness Week by hosting a four-part online webinar series on tinnitus care. To watch go to bit.ly/4g0FhWH. For questions about the Widex approach to tinnitus care contact the Widex team at Audiology.anz@widexsound.com.
Cochlear implant recipient John Ross is president of CICADA Queensland and a Soundfair ambassador. He relays his hearing loss and cochlear implant journey, and for Tinnitus Awareness Week, shares his story of living with chronic tinnitus and recruitment.
Imagine a noise being so painful it feels like someone is stabbing you in the back of your neck, and then you black out. That’s what Mr John Ross has experienced several times when his tinnitus and recruitment were at their worst.
The conditions sent Ross to a dark place where he attempted suicide but fortunately with love, support and treatment he has come out the other side and is now helping others.
Ross has a lot to live for and much to do. He is on a mission to give back to the community; whether that be advocating for better support and awareness for people with hearing loss and tinnitus including through Soundfair or helping those seeking cochlear implants through CICADA Queensland hearing implant support group, Ross has a lot to give.
The sound engineer started working at a young age and progressed to working large venues with various sound systems coordinating multiple crews for concerts.
“My hearing loss journey started in the early 1990s while I was still working as a sound engineer at large concerts and events. I couldn’t hear high frequencies, and I was wearing hearing aids by 2003,” he recalls. While audiograms indicated industrial deafness, Ross says he always wore excellent hearing protection, and believes an accident in his teenage years may have caused or at least contributed to bilateral sensorineural hearing loss.
“While scuba diving in the Philippines, there was a blast nearby involving dynamite fishing,” he recalls. “I was at a river mouth, and I remember being disorientated and feeling pain or something weird in my head. When I came up, there was blood coming out of my ears.
ABOVE: John Ross first noticed his hearing loss while working as a sound engineer and no longer hearing certain frequencies.
“Some ENTs have said it’s possible that I have a neurological, nerve type damage from that incident which over the years continued to worsen.”
Ross believes his tinnitus began around the same time as his hearing loss started. “I knew my hearing was fine because I was hearing 16k frequencies in audio that my peers wished they could. Then suddenly, I remember thinking, ‘What’s that noise in the back of my head?”
The mental health journey that has accompanied his tinnitus has been as bad as the affliction itself.
“My tinnitus has severely impacted my ability to concentrate, focus, and function at times,” he says. “It can be debilitating. I also live with recruitment, an auditory condition where sounds become disproportionately louder as the volume increases.”
Knocked out by recruitment pain
Recruitment can result from hearing loss caused by damage to the cochlea. A short and sudden sound such as an alarm can cause pain.
“It hurts in my head, not my ear, and it feels like being stabbed in the back of the neck with a knife, that’s the only way I can describe it.
“It can physically knock me out. One day in Bunnings, a fire alarm went off. There was an excruciating, white flash of pain, and the next thing I remember staff, people and customers were leaning over me, trying to wake me up and shake me to find out what was going on,” Ross recalls.
“Recently post-cochlear implant I was at a disability expo on a cochlear
implant information stand when a fire alarm again went off. They evacuated the building, and I was sitting outside under a tree with tears streaming down my face from the pain.
“Only one person who recognised me came and asked if I was ok. I was surrounded by 100 people at an event to support people with a disability, yet everybody was watching and nobody wanted to know or understand what just happened to me.”
This is part of his mission to spread awareness and understanding about hearing loss and the often invisible disabilities it can be associated with.
“With tinnitus, extra loud noises can cause pain,” he says. “Loud noises can still affect you, even if you’re deaf. There are some types of tinnitus for some people with high frequency deafness, where their brain says that because they aren’t listening to those frequencies anymore it puts them back and gives those high frequencies all at once, non-stop, 24/7 for the rest of their life.”
Ross says some people in this situation have hearing implants which restore the frequencies. “For many these implants provide an amazing result for their tinnitus, because the brain says, “You can hear those frequencies, I don’t have to make those noises anymore.”
A cochlear implant in his right ear and a hearing aid in his left have helped his tinnitus and recruitment. “But I haven’t been able to afford a second cochlear implant yet,” Ross adds. “This is another thing I’m advocating for. In some Australian states, the state will fund two cochlear implants for public patients whereas in Queensland, public patients are only entitled to one which is frustrating.
“You can pay up to $50,000 privately for a second implant in Queensland but you cannot have a second public implant. This is still cheaper than the $300,000 you see some paying on international forums.”
Ross hears a difference between right and left ears for his tinnitus. “Based on stress and fatigue, I can hear the tinnitus levels going up and down, and it’s worse in the ear that doesn’t have the cochlear implant.”
He tries to limit the amount of listening he does in a day. If there are two long video calls, by the time he hangs up, his head is “screaming.”
“I need a quiet place to rest, but there’s no quiet place because my head is already screaming. That’s where it gets hard. For me, a quiet place is about reducing the sensory input my body is taking in—that’s my definition of quiet.”
Years ago, Ross was told by two audiology clinics that nothing could be done to help him and in one instance, he had a recruitment episode during a sound test. “I jumped up in the chair. I had tears in my eyes. It hurt so much,” he says. Ross claims he was asked to leave as the staff did not know what was wrong with him, devastating his wife who was in the room.
At his lowest, he attempted suicide. “My wife Donna caught me (attempting suicide) because of the tinnitus, my health, the hearing loss. I’d lost my profession, my income and my sense of self,” he recalls.
“I tried to commit suicide three times, and in all cases, something or
John Ross.
“My tinnitus has severely impacted my ability to concentrate, focus, and function at times. It can be debilitating. I also live with recruitment, an auditory condition which can physically knock me out.”
John Ross CICADA Queensland
someone stopped me. Most recently, my wife and GP insisted I see a psychologist.”
Fortunately, the psychologist said they knew of an excellent audiologist and referred him to Dr Tegan Keogh from the Sunshine Coast who he credits with helping to save his life.
“I left her clinic that day with hearing aids as she believed I was eligible for a cochlear implant and told me the hearing aids would start stimulating my auditory system,” he recalls. “I’d not done that for years as I’d been told there was no point. Dr Keogh put me on that journey in early 2018 and in 2020, after COVID postponed it, I had a cochlear implant.”
Evidence indicates that those whose auditory system goes a long time without stimulation have more difficult rehabilitation post-cochlear implant surgery, he adds.
“Dr Keogh gave me hope that something could be done to change everything,” Ross says. “Benefits of my implant include improved hearing and speech recognition, with 100 per cent word recognition four years post implant.”
Since receiving his cochlear implant, his quality of life has improved significantly. He has not experienced any blackout incidents from recruitment, and while the tinnitus in his implanted ear has not disappeared, there is now more positive variation.
“Your physical and mental state, and your environment, can strongly affect and trigger your tinnitus,” Ross adds. “They’re all major triggers, and it’s not easy, but in recognising tinnitus and people with it, helping them control those areas and realising when somebody is done, those are the areas where you can probably find the most comfort or relief in a short period.”
Ross is also an author and public speaker and is often joined by his wife who adds insights on partner and family support. At The Audiology Australia 2025 Conference he will discuss his upcoming book, Breeding a Deaf Generation, which focuses on noise-induced hearing loss and the
Image: Emma Laird.
“It’s kind of a camaraderie I instantly build with a client when I say my tinnitus is 24/7; that shared experience is powerful.”
Dr Emma Laird La Trobe University
goes into trying to resolve issues for tinnitus patients,” he adds. “It’s always about the light at the end of tunnel.”
Everyone’s tinnitus story is different and unique. Melbourne woman Dr Emma Laird pursued an audiology career in part due to her own tinnitus.
evolution of music reproduction from the 1970s to today.
“We’re breeding a deaf generation because we’re now capable of producing and listening to frequencies and earth-shattering levels of music,” he says. “In the 1970s, we were looking at one in 10 people with a hearing loss but now it’s one in five, and the prediction is that by 2030 it’ll be one in four; if we don’t make changes by 2050, it could be as high as one in two – that’s how rapidly hearing loss is being destroyed in the human race.”
Ross has documented his experience and provides guidance and support when choosing a cochlear implant through his YouTube vlog, My Cochlear Journey. He’s also undertaken Soundfair’s tinnitus
m asterclass for audiologists.
“While some of it went over my head it was insane how much I got and also it’s nice to see the level of understanding, passion and effort that
“It was a big factor in choosing audiology,” she says. “It’s a strange phenomenon that something you love so much – music – can turn into such a horrible experience for so long.
“My tinnitus is probably reflective of many people because when I was younger, I went to many concerts, gigs and live music shows but I was unaware of the damage this could cause to my ears.
“I was fortunate there was no hearing loss, but it did develop into tinnitus, which lasts 24/7 and I’ve had for 20-plus years. It’s a high-pitched overlay of multiple screeching tones, kind of squealing which is there all the time.
“Fortunately, I’ve gone through habituation, where my brain’s gotten used to the tinnitus, which is fantastic. I did this myself and it took a few years to get to the point where I was able to tune that out, but it was never to the point where some other people who I’ve spoken to have been.
“While it caused a bit of anxiety and worry, and thinking am I ever going to be silent again, I never got to that point where I would catastrophise and get really down.”
Dr Laird says having the condition helped while studying it at university, and counselling patients. It made her more empathetic, knowledgeable, and relatable. “It’s kind of a camaraderie I instantly build with a client when I say my tinnitus is 24/7; that shared experience is powerful,” she says. “It helps that there’s techniques I’ve put in place that I can say, ‘these things worked for me, let’s give them a try.’”
Habituation means if she is not thinking about the noise, she can’t hear it. “As soon as I bring the sound to my attention, I can tune in and hear it,” she adds. “Occasionally, if stressed and in bed at night, then it’ll be extremely loud and can be a nuisance but day to day, hearing the sound, it doesn’t trigger any sort of negative emotion or anxiety response, and that’s why it can so easily go into the background, because it’s not a negative response to it.
“That’s where we aim to get clients, to the acceptance where it may never go away, but to the point where they’re not listening to it.”
Dr Laird, a former Soundfair project and program manager, is now a La Trobe University audiology lecturer. She helped create Soundfair’s F ind a Tinnitus Professional directory (see page 11) .
*If this story has brought up issues for you, you can call Lifeline’s 24/7 Crisis Support on 13 11 14 or text 24/7 to 0477 13 11 14. Beyond Blue Support Service is free and available 24/7 365 days a year: Deaf community assistance, connect to the National Relay Service and ask to be put through to Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Call TTY 1800 555 677 and ask for 1300 22 4636. Chat to a counsellor online at beyondblue.org.au/get-support.
GN says its new state-of-the-art Australian facility is leading the industry and GN globally in manufacturing and logistics, continuing its history of innovation. The headquarters is custom-fitted for current and future needs, and combines operations for GN Hearing, Jabra, and SteelSeries.
When Mr Spencer Harrop visited America in 2023, fate led him to a manufacturing facility whose design inspired the layout for GN’s innovative new Australian production and logistics complex.
Harrop, the Operations Manager at GN Hearing Australia, was visiting with a project manager when they came across an automation facility with fully glassed meeting rooms and a viewing platform on the top floor overlooking the entire open-plan production floor.
Employees and visitors could witness creativity at work below as they planned innovation above.
“We thought, ‘wow, this is cool’ and took that vision to our new Sydney headquarters, taking walls out and creating a design where upstairs rooms can look through the glass and see the entire production,” Harrop says.
The North Ryde building, basically a shell, had a customer-facing design revamp including collaboration spaces featuring stand-up areas, quiet rooms, and large meeting rooms.
“There’s also a working clinic room which enables hearing aid fitting and can be used as a demonstration room, a gaming room to enable demonstration of SteelSeries products, and there will be several Jabra showrooms,” Harrop says.
Mr Paul Jones, GN Hearing Australia Country Manager, adds: “We’re really proud of it and think it’s state of the art for the industry and GN globally. We envision it will help us retain our spot as the market leader in hearing aids in Australia.”
Jones says it was important to create spaces that encourage collaboration and support the company’s growth as well as having a customer-friendly facility so GN can bring audiologist customer tours through the site.
“The new facility is a significant investment and houses 150 employees,” he says. “It includes advanced manufacturing capabilities for custom hearing aids and improved logistics.
“The move will improve service, efficiency and collaboration, grow capacity, and help us continue to innovate.”
The facility brings together different parts of the GN business. Staff, who completed the move in January 2025, previously worked from two facilities
“The move will improve service, efficiency and collaboration, grow capacity, and help us continue to innovate.”
supply chain and improved service,” Harrop adds. “There’s increased efficiency from having everyone under the same roof.”
The new facility also has an important role in maintaining market leadership and supporting future growth, Jones stresses.
“A big chunk of the facility is the operations but what’s exciting is there’s different parts of our global business,’” he says. “We’re in the medical part of the business GN Hearing, which is hearing aids, but there’s also our audio and video solutions for our enterprise business Jabra, and our premium software-enabled and system integrated gaming gear from SteelSeries.
“Many office spaces around the world will have Jabra audio and video communications equipment, especially headsets.
“They’re moving in, which is exciting because they’ve had their own site in North Sydney for quite a while.
“It becomes a 'One GN' site, combining different commercial parts of the business, as well as all operations, production and logistics.”
Jones says the company has been on the ‘One GN’ journey for the past year. “We’ve been doing a lot of things in joint R & D (research and development) for many years between Jabra and GN Hearing, so this is the obvious next step. Outgrowing our previous facility presented this fantastic opportunity to bring the One GN vision together in the Australian market.”
Local, onshore manufacturing helps GN keep up its service to customers and enables flexibility with its supply chain, Harrop says.
“It means we can meet customer needs as they arise. Moving into this facility, the big difference is we are all in the one space in the operations area so our flow is much better, and our efficiency will increase,” he says.
“One issue we previously had was that moving an order from the start of the process to getting it out was like a big train through the building, whereas having everybody under the same roof means we can push orders through a lot quicker and more efficiently.
Paul Jones GN Hearing Australia
“We’ve also got seven-metre-high ceilings so we can double our racking space which allows us to hold more inventory to serve our customers needs.”
delivery are high. The new set-up means GN can receive a stock order and get it to the customer the next day, Harrop says, adding that some orders that require production take a bit longer.
Jones says high service expectations mean it’s important for GN to maintain and improve service.
“In terms of volume – market share of hearing aids in Australia – we are the number one player in the market,” he says. “It’s a position we hold in Australian and New Zealand markets and we’re very proud of that and want to make sure we solidify and maintain that spot.
“We’ve been successful across various customer segments, and won the Hearing Australia tender a few years back which was a big win and helped us to the number one spot but it’s only part of the story.
“Investment in this new headquarters is important for that reason; it’s an investment for today but also the future because we want to make sure we continue to improve in service and if an audiologist needs something, we can quickly turn it around.”
Some of GN’s Australian employees have been hand moulding hearing aids for up to 40 years. Other hearing aids are produced using AI, taking the impression from the clinic, adding it to a scanner that does sculpting before it goes on a 3D printer and comes out. It can be customised in different colours and shapes.
Jones says it is also a story of innovation. “Another reason we’re investing in this facility is to ensure we can continue to innovate.
“GN has a proud history of innovation. We’ve been around for 155 years and to survive all those downturns in the global economy and world wars,
we had to be innovative,” he says.
“We were the first in the hearing aid space to have an open ear design in 2003 which is now the industry norm, and to bring out Made for iPhone (MFi) technology in 2014 which our competitors now embrace.”
GN also led the way with impression scanners in clinics and the rollout of AI technology in production, he says. “We were also first to use 2.4 gigahertz technology to give direct streaming capability between hearing aids and other devices such as televisions or phones, now also an industry norm.
“We want to do the same in the production space, for example, we’ve been working on how AI can make products faster and better, and we’re rolling out impression scanners in clinics all around Australia so practitioners can take digital impressions themselves and send them to us electronically,” Jones says.
“It’s important to continue to innovate and improve service as we grow, and to deliver on promises to clinicians, assisted by our significant investment in the new facility.”
Harrop and junior project manager Mr Ryan Bresler, who Harrop says did an outstanding job, spent two years looking at sites before they found one that ticked all boxes in allowing commercial and operations to collaborate and the different divisions to come together.
A key advantage is not waiting for products to come from overseas, Harrop adds.
“People like to support locally made products, so it’s important to have a production facility and logistics site in Australia,” he says.
GN's employees were another reason for the move, he adds. “It’s important our people have a workspace they want to come to, to say they’re proud to work for GN and understand the impact they have on people’s lives.” A gaming room for breaks and a large lunchroom also enable everyone to come together, further reinforcing the 'One GN' philosophy.
Starkey’s new Edge AI hearing aids have hit Australian and New Zealand shores with a webinar launch in February 2025 and regional roadshows around both countries. Managing director of Starkey Hearing Technologies ANZ, audiologist DAWN ROLLINGS, reveals key features.
Speech clarity including hearing in background noise is the number one benefit people seek from their hearing aids. Starkey’s newest technology, Edge AI, well and truly delivers on this, boasting 30% better speech identification than existing hearing aids.
‘Incredible feedback’ from patients wearing Edge AI overseas highlighting ‘amazing sound quality and connectivity’ led the company to bring forward its Australian and New Zealand launch by several months, says Starkey Hearing Technologies ANZ managing director Ms Dawn Rollings.
Starkey hastened getting the technology, which it says is the best yet, to patients here so they could experience its ‘pure, clean sound’ and seamless processing as soon as possible, she adds.
“Edge AI supersedes Genesis AI with better sound quality, improved signal-to-noise ratios, and a two-fold increase in streaming range,” Rollings says. “DNN processing is 100 times more powerful, enhancing sound clarity and streaming range.
“There’s also improved signal-to-noise ratios in noisy environments with a 6 dB reduction in low-level noise while maintaining the industry’s best 51 hours’ battery life.”
The device features the industry’s first DNN-powered speech probability predictor which leads to the 30% more accurate speech identification. Deep neural networks or DNN is a machine learning (ML) algorithm that uses multiple layers of neural networks to solve complex problems.
“We’re most excited about further enhancements to the sound quality and the way we achieve superior
speech ID and sound quality using deep neural networks via the Neuro Processor," Rollings says.
“The driving force of Edge AI is better sound quality through this unique integrated neural processing unit (NPU) which incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) via DNN technology.
“This is what people want. They want to be able to hear clearer in background noise without having to make multiple adjustments. The DNN uniquely can filter that for them.”
If someone is in a complex listening environment such as a restaurant or somewhere where there’s a lot of other speech and background noise, that’s where the significant incremental difference is, because the speech probability predictor is 30% more accurate at identifying speech across even more complex listening environments, she adds.
“The predictor basically classifies a lot of what we would call noise or speech babble, and makes it a very clean signal, so the listener can really
“It’s trained on millions of sounds to distinguish those of interest, such as someone talking to you, from distracting noises such as clanks, hums or other people’s conversations. The AI focuses on what we want to hear versus what we don’t want to hear, no matter where you are.”
The DNN technology mimics the way a brain normally processes information to not only improve sound clarity but also reduce listening effort and fatigue, Rollings says.
Starkey explains it as listening being a complex process that a normal-hearing brain handles effortlessly, which breaks down with hearing loss.
“Edge AI’s technology mimics the brain’s auditory cortex to help fix that broken process, classifying complex soundscapes, enhancing speech and reducing noise in real time with advanced and powerful AI at the edge,” it says.
Another unique feature is that Edge AI has one DNN chip in one neuroprocessing unit rather than in multiple units which competitors’ hearing aids have, Rollings claims. It’s not a standalone unit sitting on the chip but is fully integrated into it, she adds.
“We’re the only ones who have the DNN chip integrated into one neural processing unit (NPU)
which means we can increase features.
"By using this powerhorse we can mimic the brain and classify speech and speech babble –what we want to hear versus what we don’t want to hear,” she says.
This all happens automatically so users don't need to make adjustments, Rollings says.
However, they can be made on demand in the MyStarkey app if needed and if someone wants to change sound optimisation or their preferences they can.
Apart from additional features, the neural processing unit’s neuroscience-inspired technology and powerful DNN also allow for better power management.
“It does all this while maintaining the industry’s best 51 hours’ battery life in a single charge for our RIC (receiver in canal) RT," Rollings says.
Seamless connectivity
AI brings the device into the automatic realm and along with the DNN, everything is seamless including connectivity.
There’s enhanced connectivity with LE (Low Energy) Audio and Bluetooth plus Auracast connectivity and a new smaller TV Streamer for superior streaming.
Bluetooth and LE audio enable seamless connectivity with more devices, less dropouts and a more consistent signal, Rollings adds. They pair more easily, connect more quickly and stream more robustly.
The two-fold improvement in streaming range because of LE audio also means that when streaming, there’s a much better range so the hearing aids are more efficient and use less power.
“It’s been a year since we launched Genesis AI, and now we already have on the market our latest and greatest Edge AI,” she says.
“The reason we’re doing this is because we’ve seen the impact it had when it was launched in the US and across Europe.
"The feedback from patients in terms of sound enhancement and sound quality is so significant, we thought, let’s get it to market here sooner.
“Feedback has been incredible. Patients have been saying the sound quality is amazing compared to anything else they’ve ever heard.
“Patients have even gone from Genesis AI to Edge AI and are noticing sound enhancement.
"The connectivity is something else people are calling out because it’s very easy to use, it’s an improvement on how devices connect, and streaming quality is excellent for sound, music and connection to audio and Auracast.”
Health and wellbeing features are also enhanced by adding a balance assessment tool via on board sensors that provide self-guided balance assessments to identify if the client is at risk of falling.
“We already have a fall alert that alerts loved ones if the patient falls, but we’re going to the next level and saying let’s try and prevent that fall,” Rollings says.
Apart from having an on-demand control centre via the MyStarkey iPhone app, Edge AI also now integrates with the Apple Watch for
additional health monitoring.
“Edge AI supersedes Genesis AI with better sound quality, improved signal-to-noise ratios, and a two-fold increase in streaming range. DNN processing is 100 times more powerful, enhancing sound clarity and streaming range.”
Dawn Rollings Starkey Australia
Rollings says the DNN works through sensory, subconscious and conscious means.
The sensory part takes into account acoustic, motion and listening intent information and maps this out using embedded DNN.
“The subconscious part works like our brain, effortlessly processing in the background without needing energy from the listener which is why they don’t fatigue as much,” she says.
“The conscious part means that needs can vary for two patients with the same hearing loss.
"Algorithms built for the listening experience are complex and there is a lot of flexibility depending on the wearer and where they are.
"Wearers can use on demand Edge Mode + for increased comfort and clarity through the MyStarkey App.”
Edge AI hearing aids are modern, discreet, comfortable and can be used in all listening situations.
“I think people are always going to go for what’s best in industry which is what Edge AI is.
"It’s a solution for everyone, right through custom products, the RIC 312 and all the RIC styles,” Rollings says.
“It has more accurate speech identification, increasing signal to noise improvements in noisy environments, the best in industry battery life and our rechargables are waterproof to one metre.
“It mimics what we do naturally and when you listen to Genesis AI versus Edge AI, Edge AI sounds better, even better than we thought was possible.”
*People can view the recording of the endorsed Edge AI product launch webinar as well as a three-part endorsed webinar series focusing on Neuro Sound 2.0, future forward connectivity and an examination of the balance assessment tool, at starkeylearninghub.com.au
There is a need for mental health support in audiology clinics. Audiologists working in this space, DR BEC BENNETT and DR EMMA LAIRD, discuss barriers and facilitators to this care, research and upcoming interventions while Beyond Blue also provides tips.
earing loss and mental health are intricately linked, says Dr Bec Bennett, senior research audiologist at the National Acoustic Laboratories. For many adults, the experience of hearing loss is not only about struggling to hear but also about grappling with feelings of frustration, overwhelm, isolation, anxiety, and depression, she adds.
“While audiologists are well-versed in diagnosing and treating hearing loss, referring clients for mental health support remains a significant challenge,” Dr Bennett says. “Our recent study sheds light on this issue, exploring barriers and facilitators to mental health referrals in audiology clinics.
Dr Bennett also has a Graduate Diploma in Counselling. Her research includes social and emotional impacts of hearing loss and leading a program of work developing a digital self-management tool to address these impacts.
“Mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety, are common in individuals with hearing loss,” she adds. “Despite this, audiology professionals often feel ill-equipped to address these issues. The need for a more holistic approach to hearing care is evident.”
Audiologists are frequently the first point of contact for adults with hearing loss and are in a prime position to detect early signs of mental health issues. “Many audiologists report feeling unsure about how to initiate conversations about mental health, what referral pathways to follow, or even whether mental health support falls within their scope of practice,” she says.
The study identified key barriers that prevent audiologists from referring clients for mental health support including:
• Beliefs and awareness: Audiologists are aware that hearing loss can impact mental wellbeing, but some believe that hearing aids alone will resolve mental health problems caused by hearing loss. This belief may lead them to overlook the need for additional psychological support. Some hearing professionals are also unaware that discussing mental health is within their professional scope.
• Lack of training and knowledge: Many audiologists feel unprepared to handle discussions about mental health. They often lack the necessary training to detect signs of anxiety, depression, or other psychological issues and do not know how to refer clients to appropriate mental health services.
• Time constraints and resources: Audiology appointments are often time-limited, and clinicians may feel pressured to focus solely on technical aspects of hearing care. Audiologists may not have access to the necessary tools or resources, such as referral pathways or screening protocols, to address mental health concerns effectively.
• Client receptiveness: Some clients may not recognise the severity of their mental health issues or may be resistant to discussing them with their audiologist. In other cases, clients may not see the connection between their hearing loss and their mental health, making it more difficult for audiologists to broach the subject.
Despite these barriers, Dr Bennett says there are several factors that can facilitate successful mental health referrals in audiology settings:
• O rganisational support and culture: Audiology clinics that foster a
“Audiologists are aware that hearing loss can impact mental wellbeing but some believe that hearing aids alone will resolve mental health problems caused by hearing loss. This belief may lead them to overlook the need for additional psychological support.”
Dr Bec Bennett NAL
supportive culture around mental health are more likely to see successful referrals. Having clear protocols for addressing mental health concerns, along with staff training and support from management, can make a significant difference.
• Collaboration with reception staff: Reception staff can play a crucial role in detecting potential mental health issues. They often have more informal interactions with clients and may be able to identify signs of distress that audiologists might miss during appointments.
• Comfort and confidence in discussing mental health: Audiologists who feel comfortable discussing mental health are more likely to refer clients for support. Building rapport with clients and validating their experiences can help audiologists feel more confident in addressing these issues.
• Training and education: Training audiologists how to detect and discuss mental health concerns can improve referral rates. Education on mental health impacts of hearing loss and support services can empower audiologists to take a more active role in their clients’ overall wellbeing.
“Hearing loss does not exist in isolation — it affects every aspect of a person’s life, including their mental and emotional wellbeing,” Dr Bennett says. “By equipping audiologists with the knowledge, skills, and resources to address mental health concerns, we can improve hearing outcomes and overall quality of life for individuals with hearing loss.
“As audiologists, we have an opportunity — and a responsibility — to take a more holistic approach to hearing care. It’s essential that audiology clinics adopt comprehensive mental health protocols and provide ongoing training for staff.
“Additionally, collaboration with mental health professionals can help bridge the gap between hearing and mental health care. With the right support, audiologists can play a pivotal role in addressing the mental health needs of their clients, ultimately leading to better outcomes for hearing and mental wellbeing.”
Meanwhile a Melbourne innovation being trialled this year might soon be available to assist audiologists in helping their patients’ improve their wellbeing. Audiologist Dr Emma Laird has been working on a new digital program with Soundfair and The University of Melbourne that aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of people living with hearing loss.
The Luminear app, developed by the university and Soundfair as part of Soundfair’s Hearing Wellbeing Program, provides mental health support for those with hearing loss through personalised programs.
Its online, self-guided, tailored program addresses wellbeing impacts of hearing loss and includes cognitive behavioural therapy plus acceptance and commitment therapy techniques.
Dr Laird says the NHMRC funded the program transfer from paper to digital. She says there’s potential for the finalised version to be funded through the Hearing Services Program (HSP) or government, with the goal to make it freely available and accessible to everyone with hearing loss.
“We would love audiologists to be able to use this as an additional tool,” Dr Laird says. “If they can’t address clients’ wellbeing concerns in an appointment or they don’t have the time or resources , they can recommend Luminear and the client goes home and does a personalised program.”
A small feasibility study found very good, unexpected results with a significant decrease in symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress.
“We were expecting a change in wellbeing, rather than a decrease in psychological symptoms, but the strategies and techniques in the program are informed by psychologists and the program was written by two psychologists,” Dr Laird says.
“They use therapeutic techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy, so it makes sense that depression, anxiety and stress reduced.”
Participants receive a fact sheet summary of their wellbeing including a
discussion and further support.
A clinical trial has now started in 71 people with hearing loss who may or may not have seen an audiologist. Half are randomised to Luminear where they answer a questionnaire, receive an online tailored program and reports of their wellbeing profile, and the rest watch videos that teach about hearing loss.
The trial aims to find out how effective the app is. “We’ll compare program participants with control participants and see what impact it has on wellbeing,” Dr Laird says.
“Participants will have access to the program to use as much as they want for three months. They’ll then do the questionnaire again at three months and six months to see if there’s changes and they are sustained longer term.
“Luminear addresses lots of different areas of where wellbeing might be impacted by hearing loss. There could be sensation of grief, and anxiety about interacting and communicating as well as how to ask people to respect your needs and make accommodations for you.
“There can be identity issues when you’re not quite part of the 'Deaf with a capital D' community because you don’t use sign language but you’re also not quite part of the hearing community.”
While useful for people who have brought up concerns emotionally or socially with their hearing loss, Dr Laird says the app also addresses acceptance of hearing loss for people who maybe aren’t talking about anxiety, but feel upset about their hearing. These people may be in denial or not wanting to deal with life with hearing loss, Dr Laird adds.
expand the program.”
Dr Laird previously worked at Soundfair and although now a La Trobe University audiology lecturer, she still volunteers for Soundfair’s Hearing Wellbeing Program.
Beyond Blue is another good option. Dr Luke Martin, Beyond Blue clinical spokesperson, also says studies in Australia have shown there is a link between uncorrected hearing loss in older people and social isolation, anxiety and depression.
“Socialising can become difficult for people who have hearing loss. It can be harder to engage in conversation which can lead to worry, embarrassment and feeling cut off from others,” he says.
“It can also cause people to stop doing the activities they enjoy. This can have profound impact on people’s mental health.
“Connection is a basic human need, so it’s hard to experience positive mental health when we’re not feeling connected to friends and family. It is so important for us to find ways to ensure people with hearing issues can connect with others over common interests and to share stories.”
Dr Martin says Beyond Blue research shows that almost one in three Australians feel lonely. “People across all age groups in Australia appear to be having less social contact now than in the past two decades,” he told HPA
“Hearing practitioners can help by being aware that their patients and clients are at an increased risk for experiencing mental health concerns, and to look out for any signs of concern, such as uncontrollable worry, low mood or social withdrawal.
“There is still stigma surrounding mental health issues so it’s important for health practitioners to openly discuss the topic with patients and clients. It’s helpful to ask how they are feeling and if they require any further support.
“We can let our patients and clients know about the mental health support services that are available. Some might not be ready to take that step yet, but you’ve planted a seed that free and confidential support is available. Beyond Blue is ready to talk when they are.”
Beyond Blue is focusing on early intervention and encouraging people to act early and not wait until their symptoms of anxiety or depression worsen. Its research shows more than half of Australians experiencing a mental health condition don’t seek professional support and those who do, often delay seeking support, often until symptoms are severe.
“The sooner people seek support, the more effective it is,” Dr Martin says.
Beyond Blue Support Service is free and available 24/7, 365 days a year. Deaf community assistance: Connect to the National Relay Service and ask to be put through to Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Call TTY (teletypewriter) on 1800 555 677 and ask for 1300 22 4636. Chat to a counsellor online at beyondblue.org.au/get-support.
Lifeline’s 24/7 Crisis Support is available on 13 11 14 or text 24/7 to 0477 13 11 14.
Hearing Practitioner Australia is the only dedicated business-to-business publication for the nation’s hearing industry. Established out of a desire for premium, local and independent content for audiologists, audiometrists, otolaryngologists/ENTs and other Australian hearing professionals, HPA brings industry-specific reporting and analysis, in addition to the latest in news, business, products, policy, and research, plus more.
AudA 2025 ADELAIDE 1-4 APRIL
The Audiology Australia 2025 Conference is heading to Adelaide in April with an exceptional speaker line-up plus new initiatives to improve the attendee experience.
The conference will be the nation’s largest hearing health event of the year, with more than 100 speakers including leading international and national experts.
Will stem cells be used to treat hearing loss? How can digital interventions assist clients now and in the future? How can audiologists upskill in AI to improve patient care and what can be done to help patients with autism? These are just some questions delegates will hear answers to during keynote presentations and masterclasses.
AudA CEO Ms Leanne Emerson says the conference is Australia’s most prestigious hearing health event and 2025 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year.
“With an impressive scientific program, leading voices as keynote speakers, a packed exhibition floor to learn about all the latest technologies and career prospects, and plenty of opportunities to network and relax, I encourage people to register now via our website: audaconference.com.au,” she says.
“Our optional masterclasses and discounted accommodation are filling quickly. The conference is a month earlier than usual and the AFL’s Gather Round is taking place the week after the conference, so register early to not miss out on your top choices.”
New initiatives
New initiatives include clinicians being invited to submit applications to be interviewed on stage. “This session will focus on career pathways and people’s experiences to get to this point in their careers,” Emerson says.
“We will also introduce ‘Breakfast with the stars’ for a handful of lucky delegates who will join one of our keynote speakers to chat over breakfast.”
Chair of the conference’s program committee, audiologist and former AudA Board director, Dr Bec Bennett, says when the committee was deciding on the theme, it wanted to not only acknowledge that strength lies in unity – but encourage and celebrate it.
“It’s what we see in our research offices and audiology clinics every day, and the conference allows us to magnify this and truly work across the sector to
address today’s pressing hearing care challenges,” she adds.
“By working together, we’ll be able to hold conversations across the entire audiology pipeline, from research to translation and clinical delivery. And that results in innovation – the ability to push the boundaries of our profession and determine new ideas to enhance clinical outcomes.”
Dr Bennett says the conference will see the return of the curated stream (also available as recordings to virtual attendees if unable to attend in person), popular pre-conference masterclasses and wax management workshops.
“Based on attendee feedback, we have reduced the number of streams from seven to five to reduce the amount of FOMO (fear of missing out) that people experienced,” she says.
“We received 32% more abstract submissions and applications to present than in 2023 and they’re of exceptional quality. Only the best abstracts have been accepted after a rigorous review process. We’ve seen a rise in researcher and clinician submissions and consumers offering to share their lived experiences.”
A record number of abstracts on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander hearing health was also received, reflecting the interest in and importance of prioritising Indigenous health.
“We’ve got more than 100 speakers, including seven keynotes. These events are special because they give delegates the chance to welcome leading international voices,” Dr Bennett says.
“We’re lucky to welcome cognitive neuroscientist-audiologist Dr Hannah Glick from the University of Northern Colorado and Colorado Academy of Audiology, and UK guests Dr David Maidment, a researcher into digital interventions for hearing loss, and Professor Marcelo Rivolta, who is looking at using stem cells to treat hearing loss.”
Dr Bennett is looking forward to Australian keynote speakers, Professor Chris Brennan-Jones, Dr Fiona Kerr, Dr Simon Kos and Ms Holly Ransom plus presenters of the scientific program, who are the backbone of the conference.
There will be eight pre-conference masterclasses and there’s already strong interest in sessions on AI skills for healthcare professionals, and autism.
The autism workshop will see Autism SA present followed by a panel of audiology experts discussing how points in its presentation can be implemented into audiology clinical practice. “It’s a great opportunity to learn about neurodiversity,” Dr Bennett says.
Being a small sector, networking is essential to opening doors in audiology that you might not know exist, Emerson adds. “Our social functions are designed to encourage networking and provide an opportunity for audiologists to unwind together in casual and formal settings,” she says. Social activities begin with an optional Sunset Social on 1 April at Malt Shovel Taphouse overlooking views of Adelaide Oval and the River Torrens.
A welcome reception on 2 April will be in the exhibition hall and a conference dinner at Adelaide Oval on 3 April. Both are included in all full registrations. See audaconference.com.au/
Dr Kerr is the founder of The NeuroTech Institute, and FOCUSNTI. Combining qualifications in systems engineering, cognitive science, psychology and anthropology with nearly 40 years in industry, she is globally recognised for her work on the cognitive science of human-human and human-technology interaction, and how this informs practice. This includes work with medical practitioners, technology companies, governments and policy makers on creating sustainable, human-centric healthcare and ageing solutions. She has expertise in robotic/bionics, AI design and ethics, and defence.
Dr Kos is Chief Medical Officer ANZ at Microsoft, Australia and an internationally recognised leader in digital health, working in senior executive roles for over 20 years. A former global chief medical officer of Microsoft, he is a registered medical practitioner who has practised critical care medicine in Australia, and an advisor/investor in digital health start-ups. A former CEO of Next Practice and physician executive with Cerner, he’s a mentor in the NHS and Australia’s Clinical Entrepreneur Programs as well as a casual lecturer at UNSW School of Medicine.
The University of Sheffield Professor of Sensory Stem Cell Biology is founder director and Chief Scientific Officer of Rinri Therapeutics biotech company advancing the clinical application of pluripotent stem cells to treat hearing loss. He has more than 30 years’ experience in the hearing field and using stem cells for regenerative therapies. His lab identified and isolated stem cells from the human foetal cochlea and generated one of the first developmentally informed protocols to direct human pluripotent stem cells into auditory cell types, also demonstrating in preclinical models, proof of concept that stem cells can functionally repair the damaged cochlea. Qualified in medicine and surgery, he did his fellowship and doctoral work at the NIH in the US.
Professor Chris Brennan-Jones is a clinical audiologist and researcher focused on improving outcomes for children with ear and hearing disorders. He is Head of the Ear and Hearing Health research team at The Kids Research Institute Australia, a senior audiologist at Perth Children’s Hospital and a professor at Curtin University. He currently leads an NHMRC (National Health and Medical Research Council) research grant investigating the detection and prevention of otitis media and hearing loss in early life.
Dr Glick is an assistant professor at the University of Northern Colorado, and Colorado Academy of Audiology president. An audiologist and cognitive neuroscientist, her research, supported by funding from the NIH, National Speech-Language-Hearing Association and Hearing Industry Research Consortium focuses on how hearing loss, audiological treatments, and aural rehabilitation impact neuroplasticity, cognition, and health. She has an interest in effects of hearing interventions on adults at high risk for dementia, especially those with pre-existing cognitive impairments. Her work has been published internationally in scientific journals and book chapters, and her experience spans healthcare, academia, industry, government, and entrepreneurship.
A senior lecturer in psychology at The School of Sport, Exercise & Health Sciences at Loughborough University, UK, Dr Maidment is a psychologist and Research Lead of the British Psychological Society’s Division of Health Psychology. His research interests focus on developing digital interventions underpinned by contemporary models of behaviour change to improve physical health and psychological wellbeing in adults with hearing loss. He has worked at the Medical Research Council’s Institute of Hearing Research and the National Institute for Health and Care Research Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre.
Ms Ransom is a globally renowned keynote speaker, host, emcee, interviewer, author and leadership expert. As CEO of Emergent Global and author of The Leading Edge, she’s driven transformative initiatives in leadership development, diversity, and innovation across corporate, non-profit, and public sectors. She’s led discussions with Barack Obama, Condoleeza Rice, Malcolm Gladwell, Richard Branson, Matthew McConaughey and Venus Williams. Named one of Australia’s 100 Most Influential Women by the Australian Financial Review, she’s received the US Embassy’s Eleanor Roosevelt Award for Leadership Excellence.
A/Prof Helen Goulios is giving the 2025 Denis Byrne Memorial Lecture. A life member of Audiology Australia, A/Prof Goulios is the Clinical Director for the Master of Clinical Audiology program at The University of Western Australia. The lecture is a lasting tribute to Dr Denis Byrne, one of the founders of Audiology Australia and an internationally regarded scientist. It is delivered by an eminent Australian researcher on a topic of their choosing. Dr Goulios will be presenting the topic “From local to global: the evolving landscape of audiology education and practice”.
Hearing Business Alliance’s 2025 Seminar in Melbourne will focus on the importance of innovation in transforming small business models.
Agreat speaker line-up for the three day event and some tweaks to the previous format aim to improve the attendee experience. Learning begins at pre-conference workshops and extends to speaker presentations and a trade expo while several social events will provide an opportunity to relax and network.
“We’re expecting 175 delegates which is more than 10% growth over 2024,” says Mr Stephen Logan, HBA business manager. “With the growth of new independent businesses over the past 12 months we’re expecting many more of the new businesses or potential business owners to attend the seminar, which provides a unique opportunity to meet and collaborate in a business-friendly environment.”
As of January 17, 120 delegates had registered. The agenda for day one will focus on innovating to transform small business models, while days two and three will focus on learning enhanced business and professional skills.
“The seminar will highlight the critical role of innovation in the small business sector, particularly in the hearing industry, and explain how it serves as a cornerstone for thriving in an increasingly competitive marketplace,” Logan says.
“Delegates will be introduced to an array of expert presentations from local and international industry specialists, as well as government and non-government stakeholders," Logan says. "These are all aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of innovative practices and how they can be applied within their businesses.”
Sessions will explore various facets of innovation, from strategic thinking and technology adoption to customer engagement and operational efficiencies.
“The seminar aims to inspire delegates to engage fully in discussions, encouraging them to envision new possibilities for their businesses,” Logan adds.
1. Attendees will gain a formative understanding of the theme ‘Innovate to elevate’ and how it underscores the importance of innovation in transforming small business.
2. Participants will learn about the variety of perspectives on innovation represented throughout the seminar including those from Australian industry experts, international speakers, and government representatives, illustrating a holistic view of the sector.
3. Delegates will explore the current hearing industry landscape, particularly how small businesses can position themselves as viable alternatives to hearing chains through innovative practices.
4. Delegates will be encouraged to network and engage with speakers and fellow attendees, promoting a culture of collaboration that can lead to shared insights and future partnerships.
The seminar includes two social opportunities to meet fellow business owners, HBA sponsors and business partners. A welcome drinks function on
Friday evening is a great networking opportunity while the seminar dinner on Saturday featuring the Eddie Rawk Band offers delegates and sponsors an opportunity to relax.
One new feature is extended exhibition time. The trade exhibition will open for the hour before the seminar starts each day. “This change allows delegates and sponsors to maximise their business-to-business engagement,” Logan says.
“Another change is that the seminar now includes an additional session to discuss proposed changes to the Hearing Services Program (HSP). Following the formal HSP presentation on day one, this collaborative session provides delegates a great opportunity to hear first-hand about these changes and participate in the discussion.”
The event’s keynote speaker is American audiologist Dr Cliff Olson. Dr Olson is an engaging presenter who will discuss innovation, explain the value of testing and improving consulting outcomes. He will also present on how one Australian clinic has changed its clinical model to become a success story.
Pre-seminar workshops on Thursday evening, 27 February, on Natus Gold Standard Verification and CounselEAR practice management software, along with a Friday morning pre-seminar workshop from VorOtek on wax management, are proving popular. “Many businesses are bringing their practice managers to the CounselEAR workshop to hear first-hand how it can be implemented into business,” Logan says.
HBA CEO Ms Jane MacDonald adds: “We encourage people to bring along their practice managers and key clinic teams as those who have attended our seminars and workshops have welcomed the opportunity to learn, share experiences with others in their profession, and it’s a great way to network.”
The seminar will be from 28 February to March 2 at Pullman Melbourne on the Park, opposite Jolimont train station, and tram stops. It’s close to the Melbourne CBD and overlooks the MCG and Fitzroy Gardens. For details and to register see https://www.hearbusiness.com.au/
Audiologist Dr Cliff Olson will give five presentations; innovate or die, leverage innovation to elevate your business, explaining the value of your testing, consult like a boss and clinic rescue. His YouTube channel has more than 1,000 videos about hearing loss and hearing treatment, and 373,000 followers. The founder of Applied Hearing Solutions in Phoenix, Arizona, he has served two tours of duty in Iraq, is an adjunct lecturer of speech and hearing science and leads the HearingUp network of hearing care professionals.
The National Acoustic Laboratories director leads research and innovation initiatives that focus on transforming hearing healthcare. For more than 20 years he headed research at major hearing aid companies (GN ReSound, Starkey) and Silicon Valley startups that developed innovative technologies and clinical tools used worldwide. He is an Acoustical Society of America Fellow, President and Fellow of the International Collegium of Rehabilitative Audiology, and an Adjunct Professor at Macquarie University.
HEARING SERVICES PROGRAM UPDATE
CHRIS CARLILE
Assistant Secretary, Hearing Services Branch (HSB), Department of Health and Aged Care is responsible for the Hearing Services Program (HSP) and managing funded measures under the Roadmap for Hearing Health. Previously a senior advisor in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, he’s led several portfolio responsibilities in the Commonwealth Department of Health including Primary Healthcare Policy, Medicare Benefits and Portfolio Strategy. He was also previously director of a torture and trauma rehabilitation service for humanitarian entrants.
SESSION
ROB AKED, GABRIELA LUKSZA, CHRIS CARLILE
Mr Rob Aked, director, Hearing Voucher Operations, HSB, Ms Gabriela Luksza, director, Hearing Policy and Compliance, and Mr Chris Carlile will take part in a Q and A on the HSP. Luksza is responsible for hearing health policy engagement and the HSP policy and projects. She oversees activities under the HSP compliance and e-monitoring framework, and HSP data analysis. Aked is responsible for management of the Hearing Services Voucher Operations Program and developing the IT portal to support it.
INNOVATIVE PRACTICAL SOLUTIONS TO IMPROVE BUSINESS EFFICIENCY
DANIEL FECHNER
Mr Fechner is an audiometrist and founding director of Ear Studio independent practice in Sydney. He is passionate about helping other clinics enhance their operational efficiency, financial sustainability and client care standards. He offers consulting services to hearing care clinics nationwide and helps them implement technical solutions to their challenges. He trained in Germany and has more than 22 years’ experience spanning independent and vertically integrated clinics, hearing aid and implant manufacturers.
HBA KEY ACTIVITIES, STRATEGIC INSIGHTS, SMALL BUSINESS
Ms MacDonald, Hearing Business Alliance CEO, is an audiologist and independent hearing care business co-owner with more than 39 years’ experience. She’s also Chair of the Hearing Health Sector Alliance. MacDonald has worked in diagnostic audiology in Australian and UK public hospitals, neonatal diagnostic audiology and adult rehabilitation in rural Australia and has mentored many graduate intern audiologists.
MODERN APPROACHES TO MANAGING EMPLOYEES AND THEIR PERFORMANCE SHANE DUFFY
Mr Duffy is GM of services with HR, payroll and employee management platform, Employment Hero. He joined Employment Innovations (EI) in 2008 as a HR consultant and from 2016 to 2024 ran EI as CEO. In that time EI built a business delivering HR and payroll services around Employment Hero – a product borne out of EI in his earlier years. In 2024, Employment Hero acquired EI to accelerate its global strategy.
MAJOR SPONSOR PRESENTATION: PUSHING THE EDGE OF POSSIBILITY DR JUDY GROBSTEIN
The Regional Director of Education and Audiology for Starkey Asia Pacific is responsible for aligning Starkey’s global education and training strategies in the APAC region. Dr Grobstein joined Starkey as an audiologist in 2010 and worked in the US on its regional education and training team before managing education and audiology at Starkey Australia. She has had more than 15 years of experience in the clinical setting and was director of audiology at a large ENT practice in Washington DC.
DR AL-RAHIM HABIB has helped train an AI tool to detect ear conditions, using more than 10,000 ear images from over 4,000 children.
“DRUMBEAT. AI LEVERAGES ADVANCED AI ALGORITHMS TO ANALYSE OTOSCOPIC IMAGES, IDENTIFYING CONDITIONS SUCH AS ACUTE AND CHRONIC OTITIS MEDIA, AND GLUE EAR.”
DR AL-RAHIM HABIB
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in Australia have some of the highest rates of ear infections in the world. Indigenous children are three times more likely to develop chronic otitis media and otitis media with effusion, also known as glue ear, compared to non-Indigenous schildren.
This increased risk is linked to factors such as overcrowded living conditions, limited access to healthcare, and socio-economic disparities. Hearing loss during childhood, a critical stage for development, can affect speech, learning, behaviour, social skills, and future job opportunities.
In rural and remote parts of Australia, healthcare workers and nurses play a critical role as the primary point of contact for ear disease screening, triage, and prevention programs. However, access to otolaryngology services in these areas can be challenging. Telehealth services are helping to bridge this gap by providing more accessible options for screening and specialist consultations.
One effective approach is the “storeand-forward” tele-otology model. This model relies on mobile screening units equipped with advanced tools such as digital video otoscopes and audiometric testing equipment. These tools allow healthcare workers to perform detailed examinations on-site and send the results to specialists in metropolitan areas for review. This model reduces the need for patients to travel long distances and enables timely remote consultations, significantly improving access to care for children and families in underserved areas.
While telehealth models like this provide access to ear exams, they also face challenges. Delays can occur between the time data is collected and when specialists provide treatment recommendations. Managing these delays and ensuring smooth communication between healthcare providers in different locations can be difficult. Helping frontline healthcare workers and nurses to better assess and prioritise cases during initial checks is a key step toward solving these problems, especially in rural areas.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool capable of performing tasks traditionally requiring human intelligence, such as analysing data and identifying patterns. It is
increasingly becoming an important part of modern healthcare systems. It uses methods such as machine learning, which relies on pre-determined features to train systems for making predictions, and deep learning, which employs multiple layers of artificial neural networks to automatically extract features, recognise complex patterns, as well as generate predictions.
Computer vision, a part of AI that focuses on understanding visual information, has been used to analyse various forms of medical imaging in radiology and ophthalmology. AI has the potential to transform how ear disease is screened and triaged in rural and remote areas.; for example, AI systems trained on otoscopic images to detect pathology, classify severity, and support healthcare workers in making decisions at the frontline.
The DrumBeat.ai project is a collaborative initiative involving researchers and clinicians from the University of Sydney, Royal Darwin Hospital, Westmead Hospital, Queensland Children’s Hospital, and Microsoft’s AI for Good Research Lab, each bringing unique expertise to improve ear health care in remote areas.
The goal of the project is to use AI to enhance ear health care in underserved regions by enabling faster, more accurate screening and triage of ear diseases. DrumBeat.ai leverages advanced AI algorithms to analyse otoscopic images,
identifying conditions such as acute and chronic otitis media, and glue ear.
A typical scenario might involve a healthcare worker in a remote clinic using a digital video otoscope to capture an image of a child’s ear during a routine checkup. This image is instantly analysed by DrumbBeat. ai. Within seconds, the model provides a prediction, classifying the type of otitis media, its severity, and whether the case requires an otolaryngologist review. For example, the AI model can detect chronic suppurative otitis media and classify it as needing referral to an otolaryngologist. This immediate feedback empowers the healthcare worker to make informed decisions about care, streamlining the triage process and ensuring that children who need can be flagged for review.
The next phase of the DrumBeat.ai project is to refine, test and integrate this AI tool into daily clinical workflows. By incorporating feedback from healthcare providers and collaborating closely with specialists in otolaryngology and audiology, DrumBeat. ai aims to become an integral part of clinical workflows. These efforts will help overcome barriers to accessing expert care in remote areas by streamlining the triage process. If you’re interested in learning more, please visit www.drumbeat.ai.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Dr Al-Rahim Habib is an otolaryngology - head and neck surgery registrar from Brisbane with a PhD in artificial intelligence.
“WHEN SEEKING OR ENGAGING WITH A MENTOR, AIM FOR A COLLABORATIVE RELATIONSHIP RATHER THAN A TRANSACTIONAL ONE.”
So you’re about to finish or have recently finished your qualification as a hearing care practitioner; what now?
A few years ago, I had completed my Master's degree in audiology and was looking for work and feeling overwhelmed by suddenly leaving my safe place. I had been studying since high school, living at home and working multiple part-time jobs. Nothing could have prepared me for working full time, even after many hours of workplace supervision.
After a few years of figuring out ways to get the most out of my early years of practice, I’ve created a list of tips I wish were discussed with me earlier on.
Graduating doesn’t mean losing access to your university’s resources. My classmates became close friends and an amazing support system during our transition into the workforce. It was comforting to share experiences like full-time work, moving out, and challenging workdays with people who understood. When I encountered complex clients, my former lecturers were invaluable resources. They helped me apply my knowledge independently while studying, and outside of university they took the time to provide accurate clinical practice and helpful life advice about the challenges of navigating workplace contracts. It’s also just lovely attending CPD events, conferences or work events and seeing a familiar face.
Networking can be daunting, especially for introverts like me. While attending public events is one approach, I found a more comfortable way to connect by staying updated on audiological news and meeting people through my peers or through online platforms such as LinkedIn and Facebook. Showing genuine interest in others’ work is a great way to initiate conversations and build relationships. This slower approach to building networks has been helpful in building more personable relationships in the industry. Signing up to your professional body such as Audiology Australia, ACAud inc HAASA
or NZAS early on as a student will also provide access to networking events and conferences and give you an idea of what to expect before attending.
Research job locations that align with your lifestyle and interests. Such a big move can be daunting, especially if you don’t have any ties to the region, so why not make the most of it? As an early-career hearing practitioner, you might need to relocate to a regional or remote area.
To make the most of this move, consider your passions. For example, if you love food, research towns with great dining options or local specialties. If you like bike riding or badminton, consider applying to areas that have riding tracks or a sports club of your interest. I also ended up reaching out to friends who were able to find other hearing care professionals who worked in my region or were found via LinkedIn who worked nearby and it was nice to be introduced to/introduce myself.
Many universities provide students the opportunity to pair up and meet alumni mentors to give them insight into the industry and job searching advice. Having a mentor either via a formalised matching process or informally through supervision or work colleagues I found to be a fundamental part of becoming a confident clinician. They are people who I will continue to aspire to be like and often ask clinical questions or concerns regarding work life balance.
When seeking or engaging with a mentor, aim for a collaborative relationship rather than a transactional one. This is a valuable chance to have a seasoned professional in your corner from the start of your career. Mentors and alumni volunteer their time because they genuinely want to help you at every stage of your journey.
Early-career hearing care professionals (within one to two years of graduation) can benefit greatly from mentorship, just like current students. These professionals may need a different kind of mentoring relationship as they have different expectations and goals compared to students, leading to more specific mentoring evaluations and measurable outcomes. It would be beneficial to re-establish more or regular formalised mentoring programs and even expand to online, informal mentorship opportunities. Although my personal experience is in audiology, the same principles apply to audiometry. The hearing care industry is a warm and welcoming environment. Everyone you meet has mostly had similar experiences and empathise with any questions or concerns.
Take that leap to reach out whenever you’re not sure; your initiative will always be valued and remembered.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ms Katie Lian is a Melbourne audiologist who also works as an educator with the Australasian College of Audiometry. She studied audiology at The University of Melbourne and has experience in diagnostics, aural rehabilitation, teleaudiology, administration and research. She loves connecting with anyone who has interesting experiences in the field and students/interns/earlycareer audiologists who’d like to chat via LinkedIn.
NICOLE BOWDEN, a leading Melbourne audiologist and chair of Hearing Business Alliance, provides insights from her time as a guest panellist for La Trobe University.
“THE FUTURE OF AUDIOLOGY LIES AT THE INTERSECTION OF ETHICAL BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND CLINICAL EXCELLENCE.”
Ethical considerations in business are fundamental to the integrity and sustainability of any healthcare profession, including audiology.
I was deeply honoured to be invited as a guest panellist for La Trobe University’s Master of Clinical Audiology program for the past two years, where I had the opportunity to participate in discussions on its newly introduced subject, "Ethical business practices in audiology".
As Dr Matthew Callaway, casual academic at La Trobe University and senior audiologist and director at Arafura Audiology, explains: “Run over five days, the course includes lectures, workshops and a panel discussion covering all aspects of the business practice of audiology”.
As the principal audiologist and manager of Victorian Hearing, I feel fortunate to have been able to share my experiences and contribute to the conversation around the critical role of ethics in both patient care and business operations.
La Trobe University’s inclusion of “Ethical business practices in audiology” within its Master of Clinical Audiology program, together with the La Trobe Business School and industry partners, represents a crucial step in preparing the next generation of audiologists to navigate the ethical challenges of our profession.
Ms Michelle Le, lecturer in audiology says: “Our Master of Clinical Audiology program at La Trobe University recognises the importance for our students to not only excel in clinical skills but also navigate the ethical considerations of business operations effectively”.
In this subject, students are tasked with creating business plans that take into account not just financial considerations but also the ethical implications of their decisions. This includes researching clinic demographics, selecting suitable locations, and planning the services they will offer.
very possible, and both professionally and financially rewarding, to run a successful audiology practice while upholding ethical principles.
I shared my experience as the owner of an independent clinic, where patient care consistently takes precedence over sales objectives. This has enabled cultivation of long-term patient relationships, fostering professional integrity and accountability. This approach not only optimises patient outcomes but also contributes positively to the community, supporting both healthcare and economic vitality. The establishment of independent regulatory bodies, such as the Hearing Professional Conduct and Complaints Body (HPCCB), underscores the growing emphasis on ethical practice within audiology.
BELOW: Ethical practice is about ensuring that every patient feels valued and understood.
In Australia, where approximately one in six individuals have a degree of hearing loss, it is vital that hearing loss awareness and audiological services are accessible. Ethical practice isn’t just about compliance with industry standards — it’s about ensuring that every patient feels valued and understood, without the pressure of unnecessary upselling or sales-driven care models.
Through this exercise, students learn the skills to set clear short and long-term goals. “The feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, as they recognise the importance of balancing financial viability with ethical clinical practice,” Le adds.
Dr Callaway says: “In most audiological roles now, the clinician – whether a new graduate or experienced practitioner –must have insight and understanding of the clinical service they provide and the financial implications and rewards that service offers, to the client, the clinician and the employer”.
During my time on the panel, I highlighted my experience in independent audiology practice and my ability to maintain ethical integrity in a profit-driven industry. Discussions occurred about the risk of focusing on sales targets overshadowing the needs of the patients’ wellbeing.
Clinicians need to maintain a patient-centred approach when in these environments, whether they are an early graduate, well-seasoned audiologist or audiometrist.
The panel discussion allowed business owners to reassure students that it is
HPCCB, launched in 2024, will manage complaints and promote ethical standards across Australia, helping audiologists uphold high standards of care. This development, along with the inclusion of ethical business practices in educational programs, marks a positive shift towards greater accountability and patient-centred care in our field.
I feel deeply committed to advocating for ethical healthcare in audiology and beyond. My experience on La Trobe University’s panel has reinforced my belief that the future of audiology lies at the intersection of ethical business management and clinical excellence. By instilling these principles in upcoming audiologists, we’re laying a foundation for a profession that prioritises patient well-being, ethical responsibility, and integrity.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Nicole Bowden has more than 30 years’ experience in audiology and is the principal audiologist and manager of an independent hearing care provider. She is recognised as a key opinion leader for independent practices and for her forward-thinking and progressive approach to hearing care. She completed her audiology qualification at The University of Melbourne in 1991, is a member of Audiology Australia, and advocates for small business audiologists and audiometrists.
Let’s rethink the way we look at deafblindness to see the whole person, not just one condition. Here’s why.
label for my disability. I had been using the term deaf (lowercase d) as I have bilateral, profound hearing loss. But it wasn’t cutting the mustard. It didn’t include all the other barriers I was facing.
I have Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2) and the tumours in my body took my hearing, destroyed my vestibular system, and are wreaking havoc on my vision.
I have two auditory brainstem implants (one which works) to access sound. My hearing is now stable as the implant is tuned to my body and in a natural sense, I cannot get any deafer.
But my lack of balance and my worsening vision are on a shifting landscape, dependent on my fatigue level, the time of day, and the rate of tumour growth.
I regularly attend hospital for various clinics; I go to four of the major public hospitals in Perth. Each one is fraught with barriers.
An audiology clinic won’t consider
patients may also have vision loss. An ophthalmology clinic won’t consider patients may also have hearing loss. An ENT clinic won’t consider patients may also have balance issues.
It looks ridiculous when it is written down, but it is the reality. Any audiologist would tell you that a person with hearing loss could likely have balance issues, and may have impaired vision, yet treatment is at odds with this.
In Australia, deafblindness is defined as “a unique and isolating sensory disability resulting from the combination of both hearing and vision loss or impairment. This has a significant effect on communication, socialisation, mobility and daily living” (Deafblind Australia, 2018). The term ‘dual sensory loss’ is also often used, interchangeably.
Something I feel that gets missed in the various definitions, is that deafblindness is a spectrum. It includes losses of hearing, vision, balance. Some senses are more affected than others. Most likely they will continue to degenerate and move into another part of the spectrum.
If you think of the colour yellow, there are so many shades, yet we still consider it to be yellow. Bright, pastel, neon, warm. One yellow isn’t ‘more’ yellow than the next. It’s just a different presentation.
Take me, for example - I am profoundly deaf, I no longer possess a vestibular system, and I have a brain tumour paralysing my optic motor nerve – causing wicked double vision. I am deafblind but I present differently to the next person in my community.
Many people in the older population come under the deafblind umbrella, even though they were able-bodied for most of their lives. The outdated, binary view we hold around deafblindness means sensory loss diagnoses continue to run parallel. This multi-sensory loss is isolating, and people can feel very hopeless, with high rates of depression. The activities, resources, and training in health care need to catch up with the reality.
Deafblindness is both a condition and an identity. Some people may be clinically deafblind, yet do not use this term to describe themselves. This is a personal choice, but the care provided by health
Some pointers:
• R eception - how do patients know their name has been called? Is there a screen that can display this? Is there a ticket system?
• L ighting – make sure the patient sits with their back to any windows to assist lip reading and reduce glare.
• S peech – are masks being worn in clinic? How will this impact a consult? Are you facing the person as you talk to them? Avoid talk-and-walk and talking whilst facing the computer screen.
• H ow can the patient contact the clinic? Is there a phone number and an email? Is this email regularly checked?
*Hannah McPierzie will present on deafblindness at the Audiology Australia 2025 Conference.
Name: Hannah McPierzie
Qualifications: Disability consultant, speaker and advocate. SensesWA senior educator. Former education support teacher of students with disabilities.
Affiliations: Deafblind West Australians chairperson, Deafness Forum Australia non-executive director, University of Melbourne sessional lecturer, Birmingham City University guest lecturer, University of Sydney collaborator, MED-EL HearPeers mentor.
Location: Perth-based, working across Australia.
“SOMETHING
I FEEL THAT GETS MISSED IN THE VARIOUS DEFINITIONS, IS THAT DEAFBLINDNESS IS A SPECTRUM. IT INCLUDES LOSSES OF HEARING, VISION, BALANCE.”
Ms Sophie Carson joined Country Hearing Care (CHC) as project manager in 2024 to support its re-visioning company secretary, focusing on governance while company. Her focus is aimed at helping CHC achieve its vision of helping more people hear better. Carson has more than 18 years in industry-based associations and training. She thrives on helping businesses create meaningful cultural change. Skilled in governance, compliance, and strategic problem-solving, she loves bringing innovative solutions to life.
a Bachelor of Biomedical Science. He gained valuable experience as a research assistant, including in stem cell research, which deepened his understanding of evidence-based healthcare.
Working closely with the People Director, Muscat’s expanded responsibilities allow her to continue to lead and shape the people plans across Australia and New Zealand to ensure Specsavers remains an employer of choice in the retail and optics landscape. With nearly a decade of experience at Specsavers, she has developed a deep understanding of the organisation and has built strong, collaborative relationships at all levels, enabling her to implement effective HR strategies that drive business success.
finance function, attracting and retaining talent. Part of Specsavers for almost five years, Santamaria brings a wealth of experience in HR, and has a passion for diversity, inclusion and driving HR strategy and people initiatives that maximise individual potential, drive
as Program and Project Lead and will continue to lead Soundfair’s Hearing Wellbeing research project in a volunteer capacity. After studying a Master of Clinical Audiology at The University of Melbourne, Dr Laird started a PhD while working as an audiologist and clinical educator at Melbourne Hearing Care Clinic, specialising in adult diagnostic, vestibular and electrophysiology testing. She also delivered counselling and wellbeing services. She has worked on research projects with Cochlear, Curtin University, Ida Institute, and Ear Science Institute Australia, and worked at Dizzyology.
To list an event in our calendar please email helen.carter@primecreative.com.au
HEARING BUSINESS ALLIANCE
Annual seminar
Melbourne, Australia
28 February - 2 March hearbusiness.com.au
AUCAUD INC. HAASA CEP day
Sydney, Australia
3 March acaud.com.au
DEAFNESS FOUNDATION AND AUSTRALASIAN NEWBORN HEARING SCREENING COMMITTEE
12th Australasian Newborn Hearing Screening Conference Canberra, Australia 21-22 March anhsconference.com/
INDEPENDENT AUDIOLOGISTS AUSTRALIA
Business Bootcamp 2025 Online 22 March independentaudiologists.net.au/events
ASOHNS
75th annual scientific meeting Sydney, Australia 28-30 March asohns.arinex.one/
AUDIOLOGY AUSTRALIA 2025 Conference Adelaide, Australia
1-4 April audiology.asn.au
Mainstream teachers’ workshop to improve outcomes of DHoH students Live stream 9 April nextsense.org.au
HEARING REHABILITATION FOUNDATION 12th International Adult Aural Rehabilitation Conference Massachusetts, US 5 May hearingrehab.org
HEARING LOSS ASSOCIATION OF AMERICA HLAA 2025 Convention Idianapolis, US 11-14 June hearingloss.org/
ASOHNS Frontiers 2025 Hobart, Australia 13-15 November asohns.org.au
Powered by our new G2 Neuro Processor – which features the industry’s only neural processing unit (NPU) fully integrated into the chip – and Neuro Sound Technology 2.0 , our proprietary, best-in-class sound experience system, Edge AI lets you give every patient who walks through your door the edge they’ve been looking for.
