The honest answer: there is no single best hearing aid brand in Australia, Medicare does not cover hearing aids, and the right hearing aid depends far more on a proper test and fitting than on the brand. Here is what an audiologist would tell a friend.
Written and reviewed by Mo Helou, Accredited Audiologist (Audiology Australia) and Principal Audiologist. Last reviewed October 2026. We update this page when rules or funding change.
Is there a best brand?
No. The six big brands all make excellent hearing aids. Each has real strengths:
- Phonak (Audéo EON): strong in noise, universal Bluetooth for iPhone and Android, Roger microphones.
- Starkey (Omega AI): long battery life, the widest range of custom rechargeable styles, health and fall-detection features.
- Signia (MaX): natural sound of your own voice, very small styles, notch therapy for tinnitus.
- Oticon (Reveal): natural, open sound for busy environments.
- ReSound (Sensia): very small AI-powered models and strong streaming.
- Beltone (Illuminate): shares ReSound technology, good speech clarity in noise.
A premium device fitted badly will sound worse than a mid-range device fitted well. That is why we spend our time on testing, fitting and fine-tuning.
Does Medicare cover hearing aids?
No. Medicare does not pay for hearing aids. Your options are:
- Hearing Services Program: free hearing aids for eligible pensioners, DVA card holders and some others. See who qualifies.
- Private health extras: many policies contribute to hearing aids every few years. Check your limit before you buy.
- Self-funded: buy outright or use a payment plan.
What actually drives the price
- Technology level. Mainly how well the device handles noise and groups.
- Style. Custom and invisible styles cost more to make.
- Rechargeable or battery.
- What is bundled. Follow-up appointments, years of support, warranty and loss cover. Always ask what the price includes.
Questions to ask any clinic, including us
- Do you test first and tell me if I do not need hearing aids?
- Can I trial them before I pay in full?
- How many follow-up appointments are included, and for how long?
- Will you show me a lower-cost option and explain exactly what the extra money buys?
- Which brands can you fit, and why are you recommending this one?
A good clinic will answer all five without hesitation.
How we do it
- A full diagnostic hearing test first. If you do not need hearing aids, we tell you.
- We recommend the level of technology your life actually needs, not the most expensive.
- Fitting, real-ear checks and fine-tuning until speech is clear.
- Government subsidised hearing aids for eligible pensioners and DVA clients.
Our clinics
- Alexandria: 104/35 Doody St, Alexandria NSW 2015
- Merrylands: 333 Merrylands Rd, Merrylands NSW 2160
- Winston Hills: 176 Windsor Road, Winston Hills NSW 2153
- Campbelltown: Suite 14/42 Parkside Cres, Campbelltown NSW 2560
- Auburn: 85 St Hilliers Road, Auburn NSW 2144
Book a hearing aid consultation or call (02) 8530 7200.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best hearing aid brand in Australia?
There is no single best brand. Phonak, Starkey, Signia, Oticon, ReSound and Beltone all make excellent hearing aids, and each is strongest in different areas. The best hearing aid is the one that suits your hearing loss, ears and lifestyle, fitted and fine-tuned properly by an audiologist. The fitting matters more than the logo.
Are hearing aids covered by Medicare in Australia?
No. Medicare does not cover hearing aids. Pensioners, DVA card holders and some others can get them free through the Government Hearing Services Program, and some private health extras policies contribute.
Who qualifies for free hearing aids in Australia?
Pensioner Concession Card holders, DVA Gold Card holders, DVA White Card holders covering hearing loss, their dependants, ADF members and people referred by Disability Employment Services, aged 21 and over.
What makes hearing aids more or less expensive?
The technology level inside the device (mainly how well it handles noise), the style, rechargeable versus battery, and what aftercare is bundled in. Two identical devices can cost very different amounts depending on how many follow-up appointments and how many years of support are included, so always ask what the price covers.
Can I trial hearing aids before buying?
Yes. You should always be able to trial hearing aids in your real life before committing. Ask about deposits, return fees and how long the trial is before you start.
Do I need a hearing test before buying hearing aids?
Yes. A proper diagnostic hearing test tells you whether you need hearing aids at all and which type. Sometimes the problem is wax or a medical issue that needs a doctor, not a hearing aid.
