Hearing Aus on the line

Hearing Australia has taken a major step forward in helping close the First Nations hearing gap, with the launch of a new, dedicated First Nations Telephone Support Line, making it easier for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples to access hearing help.

Operating since March this year, the Support Line has been accessed by people across the country looking for information and advice.

Hearing Australia First Nations Services Unit’s Sherilee McManus said it was a dedicated service.

“Our First Nations Support Line is a dedicated service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, as well as health and education providers working in First Nations communities,” she said.

“It offers general ear and hearing health information and support to help increase access to culturally appropriate, timely and accurate ear and hearing health information.

“It was a key deliverable under our three-year Action Plan and after trialling and refining the service, we’re pleased that parents, health professionals, educators and others working with First Nations communities, can now access the support they need by simply giving us a call.”

• People can access the First Nations Support Line by calling 134 432 and selecting ‘Option 4’ MondayFriday from 8.30am-5pm AEST, or by emailing FirstNations@hearing. com.au