The Australian Dental Association (ADA) has heard from members about challenges they’ve experienced recruiting dental assistants. We know of dental practices currently offering salaries substantially above award rates.
Assistance available from the Australian Government may help defray these increasing wage costs, and support traineeships for eligible staff.
The Australian Apprenticeships Priority List has been updated and now identifies Dental Assistants. While the Dental Assistant category is better described as a traineeship, the ADA is advised that it has standing under the programs described below.
Employers of occupations on the Priority List may be eligible for a wage subsidy of up to $1,500 per quarter for the first two years of an apprenticeship and up to $750 per quarter for the third year.
These subsidies are delivered under the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements (BAC) and Completing Apprenticeship Commencements (CAC) wage subsidy program. Please be aware that the final date for new entrants into the BAC/CAC program is 30 June 2022.
From 1 July 2022, a new Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System will commence. Although the particulars will vary from the BAC/CAC program, the Government’s intent to incentivise employers supporting an eligible employment / traineeship arrangement looks set to continue.
The easiest way to explore if the BAC/CAC program or the new AAIS is right for your practice, is to contact an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) provider. The AASN provider can then help assess your eligibility and lodge the necessary applications on your behalf.
