Smoke alarms for the hearing impaired

As Australia enters the bushfire season, it is a timely reminder that the prescription of smoke alarm packages for eligible hearing impaired Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) clients may be appropriate.

DVA’s Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP) supplies and installs smoke alarm packages for hearing impaired veterans through contracted suppliers.

Hearing impaired smoke alarm packages include a photoelectric smoke alarm, vibration pad, and flashing light.

They are designed to assist clients with hearing loss live independently and safely at home.

Smoke alarm packages can be prescribed by one of the following health providers:

  • Audiologist
  • Audiometrist
  • Occupational therapist
  • GP/LMO
  • A hearing specialist.

To be eligible to receive a smoke alarm package a DVA client must have a diagnosis of profound hearing loss or severe hearing loss in their better functioning ear.

man installing a smoke alarm

They must also hold either a Veteran Gold Card or a Veteran White Card with a related accepted condition.

To prescribe complete the D0992 Order Form – RAP Mobility & Functional Support Products.

If the client is a Veteran Gold Card holder send the form to one of the suppliers listed on the form. For Veteran White Card holders send the completed form to RAPGeneralEnquiries [at] dva.gov.au (RAPGeneralEnquiries[at]dva[dot]gov[dot]au).

For more information on eligibility and how to prescribe a smoke alarm package Please see the RAP National Guidelines - Assistive Listening Devices Guideline.

For more information on RAP visit the RAP Providers page.