Fortunately, permanent hearing loss in Australian children is uncommon, with only 0.35% of Australian children having a permanent hearing loss. Many more Australian children experience temporary hearing loss though, with ear infections (called otitis media) one of the most common childhood illnesses. Hearing loss in children should be taken seriously, as hearing is vital to a child’s normal development and ability to learn. Ultimately, if left untreated, hearing loss can affect speech development and educational outcomes. Early treatment is best.