Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture has been passed down the generations for tens of thousands of years using language and storytelling. Having healthy ears and being able to hear well supports language development and transmission of culture through speech, as well as learning, employment and social and community connections. First Nations people have high rates of ear disease and hearing loss. Much of the ear disease and hearing loss affecting First Nations people, particularly children and young adults, is preventable.

Information about ear and hearing health among First Nations people and their access to ear and hearing health services helps develop health policy and plan health services.

This report is prepared with expert guidance from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Ear and Hearing Health Data and Reporting Advisory Group, chaired by Professor Kelvin Kong.

Data presented in the report are available in more detail in the data tables.

  • Cat. no: IHW 301

Key findings

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