Tinnitus affects many veterans and serving members and is one of the most common service-related conditions.
Often described as ringing, buzzing or hissing in the ears, tinnitus can affect people differently. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and, for some people, can affect sleep, concentration, mental health and day-to-day activities.
Although there is currently no cure for tinnitus, research shows treatment can make a real difference, help to better manage symptoms, and improve long-term wellbeing.
DVA funds a range of treatment pathways to support veterans experiencing tinnitus, including options that may provide access to treatment before a claim has been assessed.
To help eligible veterans access treatment sooner, DVA has launched an Improved Access to Treatment for Tinnitus pilot program.
Delivered in partnership with Hearing Australia, the pilot provides a streamlined pathway for veterans under the age of 60, including serving members, with accepted service-related tinnitus who lodge a permanent impairment (PI) claim under the Military Rehabilitation and Compensation Act 2004 (MRCA). Participants can access a clinical tinnitus assessment and treatment before their PI claim is determined.
Early pilot results have been encouraging, with more than 80% of participants experiencing a reduction in their Tinnitus Function Index (TFI) score, which measures the impact of tinnitus.
The pilot is just one of several ways veterans can access DVA-funded support for tinnitus. If you submit a PI claim and are eligible to be part of the pilot, DVA will write to you directly with more information and advice.
Other veterans with accepted service-related tinnitus, can access treatment through Veteran Card arrangements, and current serving veterans can continue to access tinnitus treatment through Defence health arrangements.
If you are experiencing tinnitus and want to access treatment, your GP is a good place to start. They can discuss how tinnitus is affecting you, identify potential triggers such as loud noises, stress and caffeine, and assess whether medications or underlying health issues may be making it worse. Where necessary, they can also refer you to an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist or an audiologist for further assessment and treatment.
Read frequently asked questions about the pilot program and find out more about available tinnitus treatment and support.