0402 391 129
0402 391 129
Blocked ear, ringing or struggling to follow conversations? Most appointments are within days.
Book an appointmentSigns you should see an audiologist
Most people wait 7 to 10 years between noticing hearing problems and getting help. These are the most common reasons people book with us:
- "I can hear, but I can't understand." Speech sounds mumbled, especially in cafés, clubs, family dinners or on the phone.
- Blocked, full or muffled ears after swimming, showering, a cold or a flight. Often caused by ear wax.
- Ringing, buzzing or hissing (tinnitus) that's worse at night and affects your sleep or concentration.
- Dizziness, vertigo or unsteadiness when you roll over in bed, look up or stand quickly.
- The TV is "too loud" for everyone else, or family say you're not listening.
- Worry about a child: delayed speech, not responding to their name, or a teacher raising listening concerns.
- Hearing aids that sit in the drawer because they whistle, feel uncomfortable or don't help in noise.
- Work noise exposure from mining, construction, trades or the defence force, plus a possible WorkCover claim.
Audiology services explained
What is included in a hearing test?
A full diagnostic hearing test takes about 45–60 minutes. It includes a case history, an ear examination (otoscopy), a middle-ear pressure test (tympanometry), pure-tone testing and speech-in-noise testing. Your audiologist explains the audiogram in plain language before you leave. Read more about hearing tests in Glendale.
Do you test children's hearing?
Yes. We offer children's hearing assessments for families worried about speech development, ear infections, glue ear or classroom listening. Results are explained to parents with clear next steps, and reports can be shared with your GP, school or speech pathologist.
How is ear wax removed safely?
We use microsuction. A small medical suction device removes wax while the ear canal is viewed under magnification. It involves no water, so it suits people with grommets, perforations or a history of ear surgery. Most appointments take 20–30 minutes. Ear wax removal Glendale & Charlestown.
Can tinnitus be treated?
There is no single cure, but tinnitus can usually be made much less noticeable. Care starts with a hearing assessment and can include sound therapy, education, sleep strategies and hearing aids with tinnitus programs. Tinnitus support.
What is a vestibular (balance) function test?
A vestibular function test (VFT) checks how your inner-ear balance system is working. It can include positional testing for BPPV (crystals in the inner ear), eye-movement recording and head-impulse testing. Results help your GP, ENT or physiotherapist target treatment. Balance testing.
How do I choose the right hearing aids?
As an independent clinic, we aren't owned by a hearing aid manufacturer and have no sales quotas. We compare devices across brands, including rechargeable, invisible and Bluetooth models for iPhone and Android. Recommendations are based on your test results, lifestyle and budget, and every fitting is checked with real-ear measurement. Hearing aids Glendale.
What is LACE Pro auditory training?
LACE Pro is a structured listening-training program that helps the brain understand speech in noise. It's useful for new hearing aid users and people who "hear but don't understand". LACE Pro.
Do you help pensioners, veterans, workers and aged care residents?
- Hearing Services Program (HSP): eligible pensioners and DVA Gold/White Card holders can receive subsidised hearing tests and hearing aids. HSP services.
- WorkCover / icare NSW: assessments and hearing aids for approved industrial deafness claims. WorkCover audiology.
- Aged care visits: hearing tests, wax checks and hearing aid support provided in residential aged care homes. Aged care audiology.
Not sure which service you need? Call us and we'll point you to the right appointment.
Call 0402 391 129Local hearing care by area
Audiologist in Glendale
Common concerns we see in Glendale: retirees noticing they struggle in noisy clubs and cafés, blocked ears after swimming at the lake, and tradies with long-term noise exposure.
- Hearing test in Glendale with results explained on the same day
- Microsuction ear wax removal in Glendale
- Independent hearing aid advice, upgrades and second opinions
- Tinnitus and vertigo assessments
Audiologist in Charlestown
Common concerns we see in Charlestown: people who were offered a "free hearing check" at a shopping-centre chain and want an independent opinion before spending thousands. We also see busy parents wanting a children's hearing test, and office workers with tinnitus.
- Hearing test in Charlestown for adults and children
- Ear wax removal in Charlestown (microsuction)
- Second opinion on hearing aid quotes with no pressure to buy
- Balance testing for dizziness and BPPV
Independent audiologist in Lake Macquarie
Common concerns we see in Lake Macquarie: long waits at larger clinics, wanting someone local and independent, and families arranging hearing care for parents in aged care.
- Locally owned, independent clinic with no manufacturer ownership
- HSP (pensioner/DVA) hearing services
- Aged care hearing visits across Lake Macquarie
Audiologist for Newcastle residents
Common concerns we see from Newcastle: ex-industry and port workers with noise-induced hearing loss, WorkCover claims, vertigo that hasn't been explained, and people who "hear but can't understand".
- WorkCover and industrial deafness assessments
- Vestibular function testing for vertigo and dizziness
- Hearing aid fine-tuning and rescue fittings, even for devices bought elsewhere
Hearing test and ear wax removal in Bulahdelah
Common concerns we see in Bulahdelah: long drives to Taree, Forster or Newcastle for a hearing test, blocked ears with no local wax removal, and older residents needing hearing aid repairs or HSP services close to home.
- Hearing tests for adults and children in Bulahdelah
- Microsuction ear wax removal at Bulahdelah Medical Centre
- Tinnitus, vertigo and hearing aid support with auditory training
What happens at your appointment
- Book by phone or online. No GP referral is needed for a private appointment.
- Talk it through. We ask about your concerns, health history, noise exposure and the situations you find hardest.
- Ear check and wax removal if needed. Wax can affect results, so we clear it first when needed.
- Testing. Hearing, middle-ear and speech-in-noise tests, plus balance tests if relevant.
- Clear results. We explain your audiogram in plain English and give you a written summary.
- Your plan. Options can include monitoring, a GP/ENT referral, tinnitus care, auditory training or hearing aids. You choose, with no pressure.
Costs, rebates and funding
| Option | Who it helps | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Private appointment | Anyone | No referral needed. Some private health extras policies give a rebate for audiology or hearing aids. Check with your fund. |
| Hearing Services Program (HSP) | Eligible pensioners, DVA Gold/White Card holders | Subsidised hearing assessment, fitting and fully subsidised hearing aid options for eligible clients. |
| WorkCover / icare NSW | Workers with work-related hearing loss | Assessments and approved hearing aids for accepted claims. |
| Medicare (GP chronic condition plan) | People with a GP management plan | Allied-health rebates may apply for eligible patients. Ask your GP. |
| Aged care | Residents and families | On-site visits arranged with the facility and family. |
Call 0402 391 129 for current fees. We'll tell you the cost before any appointment or device.
Independent clinic vs chain store: what's the difference?
| Earport (independent) | Many chain clinics | |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Locally owned | Often owned by a hearing aid manufacturer |
| Brand choice | All major brands compared | Often focused on one brand group |
| Sales targets | None | Can apply |
| Who you see | The same audiologist each visit | Staff may change |
| Focus | Diagnosis, rehabilitation and outcomes | Often free screening that leads to a device sale |
When is hearing loss urgent?
Sudden hearing loss in one ear is a medical emergency. If you suddenly lose hearing, especially with ringing, fullness or dizziness, see your GP or go to the emergency department the same day. Treatment works best when started early, ideally within 72 hours. Also seek urgent care for ear pain with fever, discharge after an injury, or severe vertigo with weakness, slurred speech or a severe headache.
Ready to hear clearly again?
Independent hearing care in Glendale, Charlestown and Bulahdelah. Clear answers, no sales pressure.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I get a hearing test near Glendale or Charlestown?
Earport Audiology offers full diagnostic hearing tests at Suite 3/342 Lake Rd, Glendale and at our Charlestown clinic. Appointments are with an independent audiologist, take about 45–60 minutes and include a clear explanation of your results. Call 0402 391 129.
Is there an audiologist in Bulahdelah?
Yes. Earport Audiology consults at Bulahdelah Medical Centre in Bulahdelah NSW 2423. Book on 0402 391 129. We offer hearing tests, microsuction ear wax removal, tinnitus and vertigo support, and hearing aid care for Bulahdelah, Stroud, Tea Gardens and the Myall Lakes.
Do I need a referral to see an audiologist?
No. You can book a private audiology appointment directly without a GP referral. A referral or management plan is only needed for some funded pathways, such as Medicare allied-health rebates.
How much does ear wax removal cost in Lake Macquarie?
Prices vary between clinics. Earport offers microsuction ear wax removal in Glendale, Charlestown and Bulahdelah, and confirms the fee when you book. If you also need a hearing test, both can often be done in one visit.
Is microsuction safer than ear syringing?
Microsuction uses no water and is done under magnification, so the clinician can see the ear canal throughout. It's generally preferred for people with grommets, eardrum perforations, ear surgery or a history of ear infections.
Can pensioners get free hearing aids?
Eligible pensioners and DVA Gold/White Card holders can access the Australian Government Hearing Services Program. It includes subsidised hearing tests and fully subsidised hearing aid options. Earport provides HSP services in Glendale and Charlestown.
Why can I hear people but not understand them?
This is often an early sign of high-frequency hearing loss, which makes consonants such as s, f and th hard to catch, especially in noise. A full hearing test with speech-in-noise testing shows what is happening. Hearing aids and auditory training such as LACE Pro can help.
What causes ringing in the ears?
Tinnitus is commonly linked to hearing loss, noise exposure, ear wax, stress, some medications or jaw and neck problems. A hearing assessment is the first step. Most people find tinnitus becomes much less bothersome with the right support plan.
Can an audiologist help with vertigo?
Yes. Audiologists can perform vestibular function tests to find out whether dizziness is coming from the inner ear, for example BPPV or vestibular weakness. Results guide treatment with your GP, ENT or vestibular physiotherapist.
At what age can a child have a hearing test?
Hearing can be tested at any age, and the method depends on the child's age and development. If your child has delayed speech, frequent ear infections or listening concerns at school, book a children's hearing assessment.
Why choose an independent audiologist?
An independent clinic isn't owned by a hearing aid manufacturer, so recommendations aren't tied to one brand or sales targets. You get unbiased advice, the same clinician over time, and a choice across all major hearing aid brands.
Do you service hearing aids bought elsewhere?
Yes. We can check, clean, re-program (where the software allows) and verify hearing aids from most major brands, even if you bought them from another clinic or online.
Book your hearing appointment today
Glendale · Charlestown · Bulahdelah, serving Newcastle and Lake Macquarie