Hearing Loss Claims

Workers in high-noise industries are most at risk of developing occupational hearing loss. This includes: 

• Manufacturing and factory workers 

• Construction and demolition workers 

• Boilermakers, metalworkers and welders 

• Truck drivers and heavy vehicle operators 

• Tradespeople such as carpenters, electricians and plumbers 

• Airport and logistics workers 

• Agricultural and forestry workers 

• Musicians and sound technicians 
  

Even workers in office settings may be affected if they’ve been exposed to loud environments over long periods without hearing protection.

If the victim was an adult (18 years or older at the time of the incident): 

• Sexual offences or family violence 
  You have 10 years from the date of the last violent act to apply. 

• All other offences (not involving sexual or family violence) 
  You have 3 years from the date of the last violent act to apply. 

If the victim was a child (under 18 at the time of the incident): 

• Child abuse or family violence 
  There is no time limit to apply. 

• All other types of offending (not involving child abuse or family violence) 
  The application must be made before the victim turns 21 years old. 

You may be experiencing industrial deafness if you: 

• Struggle to hear conversations in noisy environments 

• Often ask people to repeat themselves 

• Turn the TV or radio volume up higher than others prefer 

• Have difficulty hearing on the phone 

• Experience ringing or buzzing in your ears (tinnitus) 

• Have been told by others that your hearing has deteriorated 

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if you've worked in a noisy environment, it is important to get a hearing test and legal advice. 

If your claim is accepted, you may be entitled to: 

• Loss of wages 

• A lump sum impairment benefit under the WorkCover scheme 

• Payment for the cost of hearing aids, batteries and maintenance 

• Replacement hearing devices 

• Medical expenses related to your hearing condition 

• Ongoing support for tinnitus if present 

• Travelling costs 

The amount of compensation depends on the degree of permanent hearing loss assessed by an independent audiologist and medical specialist. 

In Victoria, work-related hearing loss claims are usually made under the WorkCover scheme. You do not need to prove fault, only that your hearing loss is connected to your work. 

If you have worked across multiple jobs or employers, the most recent employer responsible for significant noise exposure will usually be the one against whom the claim is lodged. 

Even if you left the noisy job years ago or are now retired, you may still be eligible to claim. 

If your former employer is no longer in business, you can still make a claim through their workers compensation insurer or WorkSafe Victoria. We assist with tracking down the responsible insurer and gathering the necessary employment and medical evidence to support your claim. 

To establish a successful claim for industrial deafness, the following evidence is typically required: 

• Employment history showing regular exposure to loud noise 

• Audiology testing confirming permanent hearing loss 

• Medical examination by an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist 

• Statement of duties performed and noise sources in the workplace 

• Any records showing noise levels at the job site (if available) 

• Statutory declaration or witness statements from colleagues or supervisors 

We work with qualified audiologists and ENT specialists and cover the cost of these reports upfront as part of your no win no fee agreement.