Jessica's Story

Full circle care - How Jessica is transforming lives and building a career at Hearing Australia

A workplace that puts people first 

For Jessica, what sets Hearing Australia apart is the organisation’s deep commitment to clients. 

“As an audiologist, you’re enabled to deliver the best possible care,” she explains. “It’s about doing what’s right for the client.” 

It’s a model that allows clinicians to focus on outcomes that truly matter – improving not just hearing, but quality of life. From helping someone reconnect with loved ones to restoring confidence in everyday interactions, Jessica sees the impact firsthand. 

“I have a client who was teaching his granddaughter to drive,” she says.  

“Sitting side by side in the car, he was struggling to hear her questions over the traffic noise and frustration was building on both sides. He felt he was losing that precious connection.” 

After addressing his hearing, the two embarked on another driving lesson. 

“It was so much better,” Jessica says. “He could hear her clearly, the lesson flowed, and afterwards she gave him a big hug and said, ‘Thanks Granddad, that was a great lesson.’ He was really emotional because it wasn’t just about hearing better, it was about retaining that positive relationship with her. That’s what makes our work so meaningful.” 

Her own lived experience adds another layer to that care. As a hearing aid user herself, Jessica understands the emotional and social impact of hearing loss in a way that immediately resonates with clients. 

“When people realise I’ve been through it too, there’s an instant sense of trust. They feel understood.”

A culture that supports growth

Jessica’s journey with Hearing Australia has also been shaped by opportunity. From specialist training in paediatrics and complex adult care to leading projects and mentoring colleagues, she’s continually expanded her skills and impact.

“I’ve always put my hand up for opportunities,” she says. “Whether it’s new training, projects or supporting the team through change, every experience helps you grow.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jessica contributed to a national contactless care project, helping to reimagine how audiology services could be delivered remotely. She has also stepped into leadership roles, supervised interns and delivered training across her local team.

That culture of development is matched by strong, local support. On the Sunshine Coast, Jessica describes a team that feels more like a family.

“We genuinely look out for each other,” she says. “It’s a place where you can ask questions, be yourself and know that your team has your back.”

The regional advantage

Living and working in a regional community has added another dimension to Jessica’s career. After moving to the Sunshine Coast from Brisbane seven years ago with her husband and growing a family, she now works just minutes from home and within the same community she serves.

“I’ll see clients at the shops or hear about their lives outside the clinic. It helps me understand their world and tailor my care in a really meaningful way.”

That local insight can make a tangible difference. For example, Jessica can understand the challenges of a particular noisy local venue.

A career that changes lives

Jessica remains deeply motivated by the difference she makes every day.

“I’ve had clients come back year after year since I started,” she says. “Building those long-term relationships and seeing the impact over time is what I’m most proud of.”

For anyone considering a career with Hearing Australia, her advice is simple: embrace every opportunity and stay true to your values.

“If you care about people and want to make a real difference, this is an organisation where you can do that,” she says. “You’re supported to grow, to learn and to deliver the kind of care that truly changes lives.”

At Hearing Australia, Jessica found a place where purpose, community and professional growth come together.