Jobs for people with a hearing impairment

If you're living with a hearing impairment and looking for a job, the process can be
challenging. That's why helping you find a fulfilling job, in a workplace that supports
your long-term mental wellbeing is our mission.

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A man touches his hearing aid as he looks at his phone

Find a job that works for you

If you're living with a hearing impairment and looking for work, you aren't alone. There are over 3.6 million Australians also living with some form of hearing loss across our country.

Searching for fulfilling work while managing your hearing impairment can be tricky, and it's our mission to support you to not only find meaningful work, but also thrive in your workplace.

Finding meaningful work while living with a hearing impairment is worthwhile as it can:

  • Give you a sense of structure and purpose
  • Build your confidence
  • Expand your social circle
  • Give you the chance to learn new skills
  • Build financial independence

Below, you’ll find advice on understanding how to identify your strengths, learn what you really need from a job and get ideas of job roles that may fit your needs when living with a hearing impairment.

Your journey and situation are your own, and discovering what will work for you is an essential part of that journey.

Keep reading for tips on finding a job while living with a hearing impairment.


What to look for in a job when you have a hearing impairment

People living with a hearing impairment are capable of finding fulfilling work in a range of different job roles and workplaces.

Symptoms, skills and interests vary from person to person. In your job search, focus on finding a job that enhances your individual strengths and helps you manage your hearing impairment, as well as your mental health.

While everyone’s experience living with a hearing impairment is different, you may like to consider the following job features:

What work environment do you need?

Depending on your specific hearing impairment, you might prefer to work in a quieter environment which can make it easier for you to communicate and concentrate.

What style of job do you prefer?

Consider what style of work you find easiest to manage with your hearing impairment.

Do you enjoy visual activities? Would you feel more comfortable with a job where the communication is predominantly written? Or maybe you would enjoy a more hands-on job?

Do you need flexibility?

If your hearing impairment means you need particular workplace modifications, or you prefer to work from home, you might need a job that offers flexibility.


Job ideas for people living with a hearing impairment

Everyone experiences hearing impairments differently, meaning there’s no one-size-fits-all list of best jobs for you.

However, here are some ideas to get you thinking about what might work for you.

When looking for the best options for work, you should consider your individual strengths, skills, needs and capabilities.

It’s important to remember that the kind of job that is right for one person may not be right for everyone.

If you would like more support, speaking to an Employment Consultant at APM can also help you discover other opportunities you may not have considered before, or that may be more suitable specifically for you.

DES participant Chanay stands in front of cafe counter

Hands-on jobs

  • Gardener
  • Fruit picker
  • Mechanic
  • Chef
  • Electrician
  • Carpenter
  • Fashion designer
  • Massage therapist
  • Barista
  • Factory worker

Jobs that offer flexibility

  • Graphic designer
  • Freelance writer
  • Video editor
  • Makeup artist
  • Personal trainer
  • Dog walker
  • Photographer
  • Social media manager
  • Software developer
  • Copywriting editor

Jobs with a quiet working environment

  • Graphic designer
  • Software developer
  • Librarian
  • Writer/editor
  • Photographer
  • Web designer
  • IT specialist

Jobs that require predominantly visual skills

  • Illustrator
  • Graphic designer
  • Animator
  • Architect
  • Interior designer
  • Photographer
  • Landscaper
  • Jewellery designer

Jobs that require predominantly written communication

  • Copywriter
  • Editor
  • Written translator
  • Social media manager
  • SEO specialist
  • Librarian
  • Marketing manager
  • Paralegal
  • Grant writer

* Please note: these job suggestions may not be suitable for everyone living with a hearing impairment. These job suggestions may suit some people depending on their circumstances including, but not limited to, their current experience with their hearing impairment.


What employment support can I access?

If you're living with disability, injury, or a health condition, there is support available to help you reach your goals.

Many people with hearing impairments have found successful jobs after being eligible for Disability Employment Services and APM can provide support to assist you to find work.

Disability Employment Services is a government-funded program designed to help you find and keep work and is provided at no cost to participants.

You may be eligible for help with:

  • Career advice
  • Finding suitable job opportunities
  • Meeting local employers
  • Writing resumes and job applications
  • Preparing for job interviews
  • Accessing training
  • Accessing mental health support
  • Ongoing workplace support
  • Accessing funding for things like uniforms and transport
  • Accessing workplace modifications to help you succeed at work
  • Workplace assessments to help identify what support is right for you
An APM employee in a black polo smiles in conversation with a DES participant

Ready to get started?

Register now to see if you’re eligible for our, Disability Employment Services program and start your employment journey.


Success stories from people who achieved their goals through Disability Employment Services


"I felt happy someone was willing to give me a chance."

Video transcriptMore success stories


“It’s been hard. To be back in the workforce again... it’s great."

Video transcript | More success stories


"I don’t think I could’ve got this job without APM."

Video transcript | More success stories


Get a personal job plan

APM can help you find fulfilling work by building you a job plan that’s tailored to your needs.

Identify your strengths:

  • Many strengths can come from your life experience (rather than just your work history). It’s important to identify these as they can be valuable in the workforce. 
  • Your strengths could include things like attention to detail, logical thinking and fast learning that can be valuable in many roles.
  • Identifying your strengths on your own can be hard. If you need a hand, our team at APM would love to help. Our goal is to help you find a job that suits your strengths, skills and interests, and we are committed to supporting you throughout the entire process.

Building a job program around you:

  • Explore realistic job options where you can succeed
  • Develop a personal strategy that includes job searches, resumes and interviews
  • Discuss your support needs with your employer
  • Look at any requirements for equipment or workplace modifications to help you perform a specific job
  • Consider what support you might need when you start working

Get started in three easy steps

Step one

Register with us, and we'll be in touch in the next few days to discuss your eligibility and how to join DES with APM.

artwork of a job seeker registering for DES with APM
Step two

If you're eligible, you'll meet your APM employment consultant and tell them your interests, goals and challenges.

artwork of a DES participant meeting an APM consultant
Step three

You get to work with your employment consultant and start your plan for new skills, training or a job that’s right for you.

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Our support doesn't stop when you start working

We also want to make sure you and your employer have everything you need to be a success together.

Depending on your level of support and the job you start, we work together to make sure you’re able to work safely and effectively.

This can include helping you access training, job coaching, performance monitoring, and understanding the workplace culture and what is expected from you.

We also support workplaces with proactive education to be aware of any impacts your disability may have so we can help avoid any misunderstandings and create a culture of support and inclusion.

If you need ongoing support for long periods of time we will also discuss this with you and establish a support structure.

Our goal is to see you enjoy rewarding and long-term employment and ensure you have the right level of support to succeed.

Get in touch with our teams to find out more.

DES participant Ngaire with her employer and APM consultant walking outside a rural property

Other advice and resources that may help you find a job

How to find the perfect job with a complete or partial hearing impairment

APM answers questions about finding work with a hearing impairment. Can people who are deaf work? How to find jobs and manage in the workplace with hearing loss.

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Best job sites in Australia to find employment

Discover the best job sites in Australia to find employment. Explore top job search websites and tips for finding your dream job.

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The top 5 qualities people with disability bring to a job

The top 5 qualities of people with disabilities that are very attractive to potential employers, and how they can help to set you apart from other applicants.

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About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au.