Recommendation 1

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The Committee reiterates the following recommendations outlined in Still Waiting to be Heard… Report on the Inquiry into the Hearing Health and Wellbeing of Australia:

Recommendations 2, 3, 6, 7, 11, 12, 15, 17 and 20 (which were ‘noted’ by the Government);

Recommendations 4 and 13 (which were ‘not supported’ by the Government); and

Recommendations 5, 9, 18 and 19 (which were ‘supported-in-principle’ by the Government).

Recommendation 2

3.131

The Committee recommends that:

Australian Hearing remain the sole provider of audiology services for children aged zero to six years old under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS); and

The Australian Government outline service arrangements for hearing services following the NDIS transition period (which is due to end on 1 July 2020) as soon as possible.

Recommendation 3

3.132

The Committee recommends that the Council of Australian Governments establish a mandatory hearing screening program for children in their first year of school using Sound Scouts.

Recommendation 4

3.133

The Committee recommends that the Australian Government develop, implement and make public its plan for the Community Service Obligation program following the full rollout of the National Disability Insurance Scheme on 1 July 2020.

Recommendation 5

3.134

The Committee recommends the Department of Health consider developing a pilot hearing screening program for Australians accessing the aged care system.

Recommendation 6

3.135

The Committee recommends that the Australian Government commission research into the possible causes of balance disorders and potential treatment options.

Recommendation 7

3.136

The Committee recommends that the Roadmap for Hearing Health embed: a clear allocation of responsibilities between jurisdictions, timelines for implementation of key actions, and funding allocations.

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3.138

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Mr Trent Zimmerman MP

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Chair

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1 April 2019

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List of Recommendations