Announcing the External Audiology Reference Group and next steps
Thank you to everyone who submitted an expression of interest to join ACC’s External Audiology Reference Group (EARG). We received a strong response from across the audiology sector, with a range of clinical, business, and sector experience represented.
The selection process is now complete, and we’ve appointed eight members to the EARG.
The EARG includes a mix of members with experience across different practice settings, locations, and perspectives.
Appointed EARG members
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Ben De Farias |
Regional Operations Manager and practicing Audiologist, Audika, and founder of AudioAccess. Ben is New Zealand’s ISO representative for hearing and holds a Master of Audiology. |
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David Crowhen |
Director of Audiology and Training, Sonova NZ (Wholesale) Ltd. David holds a Master of Audiology and Bachelor of Science (Psychology) and is on the board of the New Zealand Hearing Industry Association. |
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Dean Lawrie |
Head of Strategy, Amplifon Asia Pacific. Dean is a senior hearing sector executive with qualifications in engineering, marketing, digital strategy, and strategic leadership. |
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Karen Pullar, R. |
Consultant Audiologist, Karen Pullar Consulting. Karen has over 40 years’ clinical and commercial experience, including as former General Manager of Oticon New Zealand. |
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Katrin Hobson |
Practicing Audiologist and Owner, Hobson Audiology Consultancy. Katrin is the Vice President of the New Zealand Audiological Society. |
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Dr Lisa Seerup |
Owner and Senior Audiologist, Tinnitus and Hearing Clinic and President of Hearing New Zealand. Lisa holds a Doctorate and Master’s degree in Audiology, and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Speech and Hearing Science, and Psychology. |
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Rebecca Gay |
Managing Director, Wholesale, WS Audiology ANZ Pty Ltd. Rebecca is based in Queensland, Australia and holds a Master of Clinical Audiology, and degrees in Science and Psychology. |
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Teresa Pau |
Professional Services Manager, Specsavers Audiology NZ. Teresa holds a Master of Audiology and Bachelor of Science from the University of Auckland. |
Why we’ve established the EARG
We are exploring opportunities to improve how we commission audiology services, including the funding and provision of hearing aids and associated services. We want to ensure our settings support good outcomes for injured New Zealanders, while also ensuring value for money and Scheme sustainability.
The EARG will provide us with expert advice, clinical guidance, sector insights, and potential solutions for the delivery of audiology services. This includes testing ideas with the group and developing recommendations for potential changes to audiology-related commissioning.
What happens next
The group will meet over a six-week period from 19 May, with a mix of virtual and in-person sessions. We will use the group’s advice and recommendations – alongside other evidence, including findings from the independent audiology market review – to help shape potential future improvements.
We’ll keep the wider sector updated as this work progresses via our Provider Update monthly newsletter.
If you have questions, please email AudiologyAdviser@acc.co.nz