nib has become the first major Australian health fund to partner with Specsavers Audiology, giving eligible members access to hearing aids at no, or lower out-of-pocket cost as part of a new national agreement.
The partnership is aimed at reducing the financial barriers that often prevent Australians from seeking hearing care, particularly as hearing aids remain one of the most expensive out-of-pocket health items.
Tackling cost barriers in hearing health
Hearing loss is twice as common among Australians in lower income groups, yet treatment is frequently delayed due to cost.
Hearing aids can cost thousands of dollars per device, making them inaccessible for many people who need them.
Under the partnership, eligible nib customers with Extras cover that includes hearing aids, as well as those who qualify for the Government Hearing Services Program (HSP), can access hearing devices through Specsavers Audiology at reduced or zero out-of-pocket cost.
Since launching its audiology services eight years ago, Specsavers has focused on providing affordable hearing care tailored to individual needs.
How the partnership works
Through the agreement, nib members can combine government support with their private health cover to reduce costs on hearing devices. Eligible customers can also access free 15-minute hearing checks at more than 300 Specsavers stores nationwide, with further testing available if required.
nib Group’s Australian private health insurance chief executive James Barr said affordability was a major factor preventing people from seeking help.
“Cost is one of the biggest barriers to hearing health in Australia, with many people delaying treatment,” Barr said.
“At nib, we are lowering costs to help make hearing aids accessible to more Australians. Our customers can combine government support with their nib Extras cover to access high-quality hearing devices at no or lower out-of-pocket costs, aiming to improve health outcomes.”
Encouraging earlier hearing checks
Specsavers chief audiologist Nick Taylor said the partnership was designed to support earlier intervention and better long-term health outcomes.
“This partnership with nib will help more Australians access high-quality hearing care at Specsavers,” Taylor said.
“We encourage everyone to book a hearing check when they turn 50 – not just to catch early signs of hearing loss, but to support long-term cognitive health. Hearing aids have proven benefits for improving communication which can help users stay cognitively and socially active.”
Why hearing care matters
Around one in six Australians experiences some form of hearing loss, with people waiting an average of eight years before seeking help. Untreated hearing loss has been linked to cognitive decline, depression and social isolation.
Specsavers Audiology offers select hearing aids from $0 for eligible HSP customers, with additional options featuring AI-enabled technology available at lower out-of-pocket costs.
The network has screened more than eight million Australians to date.
nib members can access exclusive offers on hearing aids through Specsavers Audiology, with more information available via nib’s First Choice Network.