Before the APD Assessment

A recent hearing test is required before APD testing to ensure accurate results.

• A hearing test within the last 12 months is required
• This confirms that listening difficulties are not caused by hearing loss
• If you do not have a recent hearing test, we can help arrange one

What the APD Assessment Involves

The APD assessment combines a gamified at-home screening test with comprehensive diagnostic testing conducted by an audiologist.

The assessment includes:

• Gamified APD screening on an iPad (about 15–30 minutes)
• Comprehensive diagnostic assessment with an audiologist (about 1–2 hours)

During testing, we assess key listening skills involved in everyday communication.

Listening skills assessed include:

• Listening in noise – understanding speech with background sounds
• Dichotic listening – how well both ears work together
• Temporal processing – recognising timing and sound patterns
• Phoneme recognition – identifying speech sounds accurately
• Auditory memory – remembering and processing spoken information

Equipment Required

• A pair of wired headphones is required for the APD test
• Koss UR10 headphones are recommended

These headphones provide the consistent sound quality needed for reliable test results.

Personalised Testing

Every APD assessment is tailored to the individual based on:

• Age
• Hearing levels
• Reported listening difficulties
• Medical or developmental history

Short breaks are included when needed to help children and adults stay comfortable and focused throughout testing.

For more information about the assessment approach used, please see About Melody Hear For You.

Results Discussion

A 15–30 minute Zoom meeting is usually scheduled 1–2 days after the assessment to discuss the results.

During this session, the audiologist will:

• Explain the test findings clearly
• Answer any questions about the results
• Discuss possible next steps

If APD Is Diagnosed

If Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) is identified, the discussion will include:

• Which listening skills are most affected
• How these difficulties may affect learning, work, or daily communication
• Recommended next steps or management options

If Listening Difficulties Are Not Primarily Auditory

Sometimes testing shows that listening challenges are more related to language, attention, or memory rather than auditory processing.

In these cases, we may recommend referral to:

• Speech pathologists for language or literacy support
• Psychologists or GPs for attention or working memory concerns

This ensures clients receive the most appropriate support.

Written APD Assessment Report

After the assessment, you will receive a detailed written report that includes:

• A clear explanation of test results
• A summary of identified listening strengths and difficulties
• Recommended classroom, workplace, or communication strategies
• Suggested next steps if further support is needed

The report is written in clear, practical language and can be shared with teachers, therapists, or healthcare providers if needed.

Simple, transparent fees. NDIS self-managed and plan-managed welcome.
Medicare Chronic Disease Management plans can attract rebates (gap may apply).