Hearing Loss Friendly & Support Communities in Australia

Do you or a loved one live with hearing loss? Do you want to know more about what support organisations and community activities are available in your area? Then look no further. We’ll go over what hearing loss is, how it affects people’s daily life, and how to find activities and resources to ensure you or a loved one leads as fulfilling and independent a life as possible.

Hearing loss and deafness in Australia

Your ears are the organ that enables you to hear and interpret sounds in your environment. Without good hearing, barriers can arise with communication, work, leisure activities, and more. Hearing loss can be a result of many different causes. No two individuals with hearing loss are the same. Hearing loss can range from mild to profound and includes Deafness or the complete loss of hearing.

How does hearing work?

Your ears facilitate hearing with several complex mechanisms. The ears are made up of three main parts: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. 

The outer ear is the part you can see. Its shape helps to collect sound waves and send them down the ear canal towards the middle ear.

The middle ear is separated from the outer ear by the eardrum and contains three tiny bones called the malleus (hammer bone), the incus (anvil bone), and the stapes (stirrup bone). Together, these bones support the eardrum’s movement in response to sound waves. The middle ear also helps to balance ear pressure via the Eustachian tube, which connects the inner ear to the throat.

The inner ear contains a small, spiral-shaped organ known as the cochlear. The cochlear has tiny hair-like cells that sense the vibrations of the sound waves, translate them into electrical impulses, and pass the messages to the brain for interpretation. 

All three parts of your ear work together to enable you to hear and interpret sounds so quickly that you aren’t even aware of the complex mechanisms taking place. The type and severity of hearing loss a person experiences can depend on which part(s) of the ear is affected. 

Types of hearing loss

There are two types of hearing loss that can affect individuals. The first type of hearing loss is known as conductive hearing loss. This type of hearing loss is caused by the disrupted transmission of sound between the inner and outer ear. It is often treatable, depending on the cause and severity of the damage. Common causes of conductive hearing loss include:

• Impacted wax in the ear canal
• The tiny bones in the middle ear are not adequately passing sound waves to the middle ear
• The eardrum does not vibrate in response to soundwaves
• There is fluid built up in the middle ear.

The second type of hearing loss is known as sensorineural hearing loss. Sensorineural hearing loss is most often due to damage to the cochlea in the inner ear. Other parts of the ear may normally be working, but the sounds are not being received by the brain. Sensorineural hearing loss can be less responsive to treatment, and hearing may not be restored. Common causes of sensorineural hearing loss include:

• Certain diseases
• Trauma, such as an injury
• Some genetic conditions may increase the likelihood of cochlear damage.

Some people experience a combination of conductive and sensorineural hearing loss, a condition which is referred to as mixed hearing loss.

What causes hearing loss?

Hearing loss can have many different causes. Temporary hearing loss can result from built-up earwax, foreign objects obstructing the ear canal, excess mucus (especially after a cold or flu), or ear infections. Permanent hearing loss can be caused by many different things, including the following.

• Genetic and hereditary disorders
• Prenatal exposure to some diseases (including rubella, influenza, and mumps)
• Exposure to loud noises (especially over prolonged periods, e.g., in a workplace)
• Trauma and/or injuries
• Certain diseases (including meningitis, mumps, chickenpox, and cytomegalovirus)
• Exposure to certain chemicals.

Age-related hearing loss is known as presbycusis and often begins with the loss of higher frequency sounds like “s” “f” and “t” sounds. People with age-related hearing loss may first notice that these sounds start to sound similar to one another. This can be a good sign that it is time to get your hearing checked so any issues can be addressed in their earliest stages.

Being deaf and hard of hearing in Australia

The Deaf community in Australia is a diverse group. Australians who are Deaf or hard of hearing in Australia represent a wide range of backgrounds, including those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander origin, diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, children and young people, older people, homeless people, or those at risk of homelessness, and the LGBTQIA+ community. No two people who experience Deafness or hearing loss are alike. 

Hearing loss in Australia facts and statistics

Hearing loss is more common than many people realise. Most people will encounter hearing loss at some stage in their life, whether for themselves or someone close to them. Here are some facts and figures about Deafness and hearing loss in Australia.

• One in six Australians suffers from hearing loss. This number is expected to rise with ageing populations and increased exposure to loud noise.
• Most hearing loss is a result of genetics or ageing. However, one-third of people lose their hearing due to preventable causes.
• Hearing aids are underutilised: only one in five Australians who could benefit from a hearing aid use one.
• One in two people aged over 60 years old experience hearing loss.
• People living with hearing loss experience barriers to employment. Employment rates for people with hearing loss are 20.5% lower for men and 16.5% lower for women.
• Due to lost productivity and other costs, hearing loss collectively costs Australia $11.75 billion each year.

Supporting loved ones living with deafness or hearing loss

Hearing loss can sometimes happen so gradually that the person affected doesn’t notice. This has become some sounds will come through normally, while others are hard to hear or not heard at all. If left untreated and uninvestigated, this can cause challenges for you and your loved one’s relationship. It can also affect the person experiencing hearing loss in their ability to work, partake in their hobbies, and communicate with friends and family. Untreated hearing loss can contribute to loneliness, isolation and reduced quality of life. Some warning signs that someone is losing their hearing can include the following.

• Asking you to repeat yourself more often
• Complaining that everyone is mumbling
• Can only hear you when facing you
• Has difficulty in noisy or busy areas
• Becoming more quiet than normal when socialising
• Missing dialogue in films or television
• Watching television or listening to the radio at much louder volumes.

If you or someone you love is experiencing any degree of hearing loss, reaching out for help is a crucial first step. Motivate your loved one to get a hearing test as soon as possible, and also consider ways you can support easier communication with them. Some useful tips for communicating with someone with hearing loss are:

• Get their attention before you start speaking and let them see your face
• Speak clearly at a natural pace and volume (don’t slow down or shout)
• Sit closer to them with good lighting so they can see your mouth move
• Avoid talking while chewing, smoking, drinking, or covering your mouth
• Reduce background noise or find somewhere quiet to talk
• Avoid interrupting each other in group conversations.

Deaf friendly and support communities in Australia

Navigating the ups and downs of losing your hearing is a complicated and challenging process. Luckily, you don’t have to do it all alone. Here are some Deaf-friendly and support communities in Australia that can help you or a loved one access the support you need to lead an independent, fulfilling life.

7 deaf-friendly and support communities in Victoria

1. Deaf Victoria 

Deaf Victoria is the peak advocacy body representing Deaf and hard-of-hearing Victorians. Its mission is to ensure deaf and hard of hearing people in Victoria experience equality, opportunity, and connection and are valued for their unique contributions to a diverse society. Deaf Victoria offers individual and systemic advocacy for Deaf and hard-of-hearing Victorians. 

2. Deaf Hub Bendigo

Inclusive online hub and Facebook group offering Deaf-led workshops and activities. The group works to reduce barriers, create awareness and foster meaningful connections for people living with hearing loss in the Bendigo region. Services include onsite interpreting for all community members to access, Auslan community classes and toddler signs and Auslan story time, and Deaf Awareness Training.

3. Deaf Art

The Deaf Art group is managed by the John Pierce Centre in Prahran, Victoria. The Deaf Art group is for people wishing to learn new skills in arts and crafts. The group meets weekly on Friday during school terms. For more information, please contact Diane Backholer. Email: [email protected].  Phone (SMS only) : 0409 175 538. 

4. Signee Tots

Signee Tots is a playgroup registered with Playgroup Victoria, primarily for Deaf parents and their children, families with Deaf children, or anyone interested in using Auslan in their home with their families. Signee Tots meets once a fortnight on a Tuesday through the school term and often has a school holidays activity day after each term.

Signee Tots encourages a better understanding of Deaf culture, recognition of Deaf role models, and development of sign language. For more information, please contact the John Pierce Centre (JPC) in Prahran. Email: [email protected]. 

5. Koda Australia

Koda Australia organises weekend camps for Kids of Deaf Adults in various parts of Australia, with ages ranging from 12 to 17 years old. This is a volunteer organisation lead by Adults who have Deaf Parents who are passionate about organising these camps. For more information, please contact the John Pierce Centre (JPC) in Prahran. Email: [email protected]. 

6. Victorian Deaf Senior Citizens Club

The Victorian Deaf Senior Citizens Club meets every second Thursday, 9:30 am – 2:30 pm. The group creates a supportive community for older Australians who live with hearing loss to form connections, share information and resources and lead a better quality of life. For inquiries, email [email protected] or phone: (03) 9473 1111. Expression Australia also offers interpreting services for older Australians to improve access to their local community and important services.

7. Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria

Deaf Sports Recreation Victoria (DSRV) is the state parent sporting body in Victoria representing the deaf and hard of hearing community. DSRV is a non for profit organisation that also manages Victorian representatives of Australian deaf sports teams competing in local competitions. DSRV plays a role in putting deaf and hard of hearing Victorians in touch with various sporting clubs and keeping the community informed of events and opportunities for meeting new and like-minded people. Check out their website for more information, or refer to this list for the available Deaf sporting clubs in Victoria.

4 deaf-friendly and support communities in Western Australia

1. Walking Group – Access Plus WA Deaf

Meet with other local community members for a gentle, casual stroll around Lake Monger. Choose your route and go for a long or short walk while catching up with friends or making new connections. Finish with a coffee or bite to eat at D’Cafe. This group is open to everyone – including loved ones of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, Auslan students, and more. For more information, email [email protected] or phone: 08 9441 2677.

2. WA Deaf Recreation Association

The WA Deaf Recreation Association aims to fulfill the social, recreational, and sporting needs of the Deaf community of WA. The clubs operating within the Association include – Darts, Gold, Eight Ball Pool, Poker, Women’s Guild, Seniors, Crafts, and other indoor sports and events.

The club is located at the Lake Monger Recreation Club and hosts a Friday social night for all deaf community members. For more information, email [email protected] or phone: 08 9441 2677.

3. Access Plus WA Deaf Inc

Access Plus WA Deaf Inc (formerly known as the WA Deaf Society) strives to create a community of communication for its members. They offer interpreting services, NDIS access support, Auslan training and more. 

4. Western Australian Association of the Deaf (WAAD)

The Western Australian Association of the Deaf (WAAD) is the state branch of Deaf Australia and is a voluntary association representing the needs and interests of the Deaf community of Western Australia. WAAD offer information, support, advocacy, and more. They host Deaf community markets, Auslan (sign language) support, and an Auslan professionals network. 

All board members of the WAAD Board are Deaf and volunteer their time and efforts.

7 deaf-friendly and support communities in South Australia

1. Deaf Community & Sports South Australia (DCSSA)

Deaf Community and Sports South Australia (formerly South Australia Deaf Sports and Social Club) were set up in 1984, taking over from the old Deaf Committee, which was founded in 1911. DCSSA is run by Deaf/Hard of Hearing board members, staff, and volunteers.

DCSSA supports and engages Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing children and adults to participate in community, sports, and recreation activities for healthy lifestyles and personal development. Email: [email protected] or phone: 0477 799 897 (SMS only) for more information.

2. Deaf Women’s Friendly Society

Women’s social group for Deaf and hard-of-hearing women. All ages are welcome but must know some Auslan (Australian Sign Language) to participate. The group meets on the 3rd Saturday of each month at Deaf Community & Sports SA from 12 pm for a social chat and some lunch – the meeting starts at 1.00 pm till around 4.00 pm. For more information, email [email protected] or phone: 0477 799 897 (SMS only).

3. Can:Do 4Kids (CD4Ks)

Can:Do 4Kids, South Australia’s oldest charity, works directly with children and young adults with sensory impairment by focusing on what children ‘can do’ and helping them to reach their full potential. All services provided by Can:Do 4Kids are provided free of charge to children and young adults who are deaf, blind, or who have a sensory impairment.

4. Child and Family Health Service – Metropolitan South Region (CaFHS)

Provides services to parents and children aged 0 – 5 years. Services include scheduled health and developmental checks, hearing and vision screening, parent support groups, feeding and settling management support, and more. 

5. Deaf Can:Do

The Royal South Australian Deaf Society, later Deaf Can:Do, has supported the South Australian Deaf and hard of hearing community since 1891. They offer interpreter bookings, education, community access support, support coordination, and more.

6. Klemzig Primary School & Centre for Hearing Impaired

Primary school, preschool, and educational transition programs for Deaf and hard of hearing students. Klemzig School is a bilingual school, which means learning opportunities are offered by two teachers simultaneously in both spoken English and Auslan in many classes. 

Children experience an education that will acknowledge the importance of understanding themselves as individuals within a supportive yet challenging environment.

7. South Australian Catholic Deaf Association Inc.

Faith-based social and community support group for Deaf and hard of hearing individuals in South Australia. Services are offered Monday to Friday from 9.30 am to 1 pm, including counselling, group worship, marriage counselling, parenting support, social activities, and interpreting services.