Disability Support Pension for Hearing Loss

Hearing loss and deafness can qualify for the Disability Support Pension when they significantly impair communication and work capacity. Severe bilateral hearing loss (greater than 90 dB in both ears) may qualify for manifest eligibility. Moderate hearing loss combined with other conditions can also reach the 20-point threshold.

Last verified: 20 March 2026

DSP Payment Rates (2025-26)

Status	Rate per fortnight
Single (21+)	$1,116.30
Couple (each, 21+)	$841.40

Rates include base pension and Pension Supplement. Under-21 rates are lower. Energy Supplement is additional. Current from 20 March 2026.

Impairment Tables Assessment

Hearing loss is assessed under Impairment Table 6 — Communication Function. Audiometric testing results (pure tone audiometry, speech discrimination scores) are used to rate the severity. Profound bilateral hearing loss scores 15-20 points on this table alone. Moderate hearing loss may score 5-10 points.

Evidence Needed

*Audiologist report with pure tone audiometry results (air and bone conduction)
*Speech discrimination scores in quiet and noise conditions
*ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist report on cause and prognosis
*Evidence of hearing aid trials and their effectiveness
*Functional communication assessment if available
*Evidence of any surgical interventions (cochlear implants, tympanoplasty)

Application Tips

*Audiometric testing results are objective evidence — ensure they are recent (within 12 months)
*If hearing aids do not adequately compensate, document this (aided vs unaided audiometry)
*Include speech-in-noise testing results, as real-world communication in workplaces is often noisy
*Profound bilateral hearing loss may qualify for manifest eligibility
*If you have tinnitus, balance disorders, or other ENT conditions, claim additional impairment points
*Document how hearing loss affects telephone use, meetings, safety awareness, and other workplace requirements

Disability Medical Assessment (DMA)

A DMA for hearing loss relies heavily on audiometric test results rather than subjective assessment. Bring your most recent audiogram and ENT reports. The assessor may test communication ability in the consultation room, but this may not reflect workplace conditions.

Partial Capacity to Work

Many people with hearing loss can work with accommodations (quiet environments, visual communication, captioning). If suitable accommodations are not available in jobs you are qualified for, this supports DSP eligibility.

Appeal Rights

If your DSP claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal. First, request an internal review by an Authorised Review Officer (ARO) within 13 weeks of the decision. If the ARO upholds the rejection, you can appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART, formerly AAT) within 13 weeks. New medical evidence can be submitted at each stage. Around 40% of DSP appeals at the ART are successful. Free legal help is available from Legal Aid and disability advocacy organisations.

Income & Assets Tests

DSP is subject to both an income test and an assets test. Singles can earn up to $204 per fortnight before their payment is reduced (50c per dollar above). Single homeowners can have up to $314,000 in assets for the full payment. Couples have a combined income free area of $360/fn and assets limit of $470,000 (homeowner).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get DSP for hearing loss?

Yes. Profound bilateral hearing loss or deafness can qualify for DSP with manifest eligibility. Moderate hearing loss may qualify if combined with other conditions to reach 20+ impairment points. Audiometric testing is the key evidence.

What level of hearing loss qualifies for DSP?

Profound bilateral hearing loss (greater than 90 dB in both ears) is most likely to qualify on its own. Moderate bilateral hearing loss (40-70 dB) may not score enough points alone but can be combined with other conditions. Unilateral hearing loss is generally not sufficient for DSP.

Do hearing aids affect my DSP eligibility?

Centrelink assesses your functioning with hearing aids (aided hearing). If hearing aids adequately compensate for your hearing loss, Centrelink may argue you can work. Document any limitations of hearing aids, particularly in noisy environments.

Can I get DSP for tinnitus?

Tinnitus alone rarely qualifies for DSP, but severe tinnitus can contribute impairment points alongside hearing loss or mental health conditions. Document how tinnitus affects concentration, sleep, and daily functioning.

What about cochlear implants and DSP?

If a cochlear implant significantly improves your hearing and work capacity, Centrelink may reconsider your DSP. However, if your hearing remains significantly impaired even with the implant, you can continue to receive DSP. Document aided hearing test results with the implant.

Related tools & calculators

Benefits Check DSP Calculator Income & Asset Test Assets Test Thresholds Payment Rates 2025-26 Deeming Rates Rent Assistance Carer Payment

This tool provides general information and estimates only based on publicly available data from Services Australia and the Department of Social Services. It does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Results may not reflect your specific circumstances. Always verify with Services Australia before making decisions about your entitlements.

Sources: Services Australia, Department of Social Services. Rates and thresholds current from 20 March 2026.

Disclaimer: This page provides general information about DSP eligibility for hearing loss. Individual circumstances vary. Always consult Services Australia and seek medical advice specific to your situation.