About us

About Michelle Richards
Independent Hearing Specialist
Director, Michelle Richards Hearing (Dickson, Canberra)
For more than 20 years, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people hear better, stay connected, and maintain independence through personalised, ethical, evidence-based hearing care. After working within some of Australia’s largest corporate hearing organisations, I founded Michelle Richards Hearing in 2024 to bring something different to Canberra: locally owned, independent, client-centred hearing care with no sales targets, no brand bias, and no pressure—ever.

My mission is simple:
To provide the kind of hearing support I would want for my own family—honest, thorough, compassionate, and tailored to each individual.

Why I Started an Independent Hearing Clinic
After two decades working in corporate hearing chains, I saw how many older Australians were being pushed into “one-brand” solutions, rushed appointments, or unnecessary upgrades. That didn’t sit right with me. I wanted to create a place where people could:

• receive genuine, unbiased advice
• try multiple brands and technology levels
• feel supported, understood, and never rushed
• be treated as a person, not a sales number
• access hearing care right here in their own community
  …and that’s exactly what Michelle Richards Hearing stands for.

Today my clinic in Dickson, Canberra proudly supports hundreds of local families, pensioners, veterans, workers, and retirement home residents with professional, ethical, and personalised hearing services.

My Qualifications & Experience

• 20+ years clinical experience across independent as well as major hearing organisations
• Accredited Hearing Specialist & qualified Audiometrist
• Hearing Services Program (HSP) provider
• Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) provider
• Trained and certified in advanced microsuction earwax removal
• Expertise across multiple brands (Starkey, Signia, Oticon, Widex, Unitron & more)
• Skilled in diagnostic testing, hearing aid fitting, tinnitus management, and ongoing care
• WWVP-cleared for aged-care and community-based services

My background includes extensive work with older adults, tinnitus patients, complex hearing losses, and clients transitioning from outdated or ineffective hearing aids.

My Approach to Hearing Care
My clients often describe their appointments as “relaxed, personal, and easy to understand.”
That’s because my approach is built on three core values:

1. Independence
No manufacturer ties. No targets. No corporate pressure.
I choose the most suitable hearing solution based solely on the client’s needs, lifestyle, and budget.

2. Education & Empowerment
I take the time to explain results, demonstrate technology, and guide clients through every step—so they feel confident and supported.

3. Local Community Care
I work closely with:

• GPs
• retirement villages
• Probus clubs
• community centres
• home-visiting nursing and care teams

I also offer in-home and onsite hearing services for older adults, DVA clients, and nursing home residents who have difficulty travelling.

What Makes Michelle Richards Hearing Different
Clients choose my clinic because they value:

• One-on-one appointments (no rotating staff)
• A consistent, familiar face who remembers their history
• Multi-brand hearing aid choice
• Ethical, transparent pricing
• A calm, supportive environment
• Real relationships, not sales agendas
• Local Canberra ownership and community investment

Many of my clients have followed me from previous clinics specifically because they trust the independence, honesty, and personalised service I offer.

Meet Sachi — Our Clinic Mascot
My friendly little doggo Sachi (short for Versace) is a much-loved part of the clinic. He is a 4 year old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a very sweet and affectionate nature. He often greets clients at the door, brings calm and comfort during appointments, and has become a recognisable face in my community work and social media. Many clients say that seeing Sachi is one of the highlights of their visit!

A Canberra Clinic With Heart
Running my own clinic has allowed me to:

• offer longer appointments
• support clients through major health and life changes
• provide ongoing education through Canberra Weekly
• engage with local seniors’ groups and Probus clubs
• advocate for early hearing care and fall-risk reduction
• deliver hearing solutions that genuinely improve wellbeing and independence

I am incredibly proud to serve the Canberra community and grateful for the trust my clients place in me.

My Promise to Every Client
When you visit Michelle Richards Hearing, you will always receive:

• clear explanations
• ethical recommendations
• patient, respectful care
• a safe, welcoming space
• long-term support, not a one-off transaction

Hearing health is deeply personal—so is my service.