In May 2018, the Commonwealth Government notified HCIA and other stakeholders of a review of hearing services legislation.  This “red tape” review is to ensure hearing services regulations are up to date and identify opportunities to streamline, simplify or reduce regulatory burdens. 

HCIA provided its initial response to the Department of Health in May 2018 and is pleased the Department adopted many of our suggestions.   In May 2019, HCIA made a further submission to respond to questions arising from the Department’s consultation process.  Our perspective is informed by the principles of good regulation and the importance of ensuring regulation reflects changes in administration and evolving hearing services and technology. 

HCIA believes that streamlining regulation has the potential to protect the interests of consumers while minimising the regulatory burden on providers.

New legislation and a new provider contract took effect on 1 October 2019.  A transition period has been allowed for certain changes which must be implemented by 1 April 2020.

Read more about the changes.