Transform Your Lifestyle and Career
A change of lifestyle, a new job and a fresh opportunity are often something we only dream about however, Australia warmly welcomes overseas dentists who aspire to practice their profession. With its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, Australia offers a remarkable setting to further your dental expertise and contribute to the well-being of its people. We understand that the process of registering as an overseas dentist in Australia can seem complex. To help you we have put together practical advice guidance on the process of getting qualified and navigating the registration process to begin your professional journey as a dentist in Australia.
Registering with AHPRA
To practice dentistry in Australia, it is essential to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) through the Dental Board of Australia. AHPRA is the national agency responsible for the registration and accreditation of healthcare professionals.
Registration Pathways
There are three pathways available for overseas dentists seeking registration in Australia: General Registration, Endorsements, and Limited Registration. Let's explore each of these pathways in more detail:
Assessments
For overseas-qualified dentists with qualifications that do not meet the requirements for registration with the Dental Board of Australia you will need to complete a skills assessment. It is designed to assess your knowledge, judgement, clinical skills, and professional competence. The assessment process consists of 3 steps. We outlined these below, including details of the assessment in each step, associated costs and time frames.
1. General Registration:
Under general registration, there are several categories of dental practitioner registration available, including:
- Dentists: If you hold a primary dental qualification that is comparable to an Australian-approved qualification, you may be eligible for general registration as a dentist.
- Dental Hygienists: Overseas dental hygienists with equivalent qualifications can apply for general registration in this category.
- Dental Prosthetists: Those who have completed training in dental prosthetics outside of Australia may be eligible for general registration as dental prosthetists.
- Dental Therapists: If you have completed a dental therapy program that meets the requirements set by the Dental Board of Australia, you can apply for general registration as a dental therapist.
- Oral Health Therapists: Overseas oral health therapists with equivalent qualifications can seek general registration in this category.
2. Endorsements
Endorsement of the registration identifies practitioners with additional qualifications and specific expertise. There are currently two endorsements for dentists:
- area of practice (conscious sedation)
- acupuncture.
You can refer to the Standards for more information.
3. Limited Registration
Limited registration categories that dentists with overseas qualifications may apply, while working towards General Registration, are:
- Public Sector Dental Workforce scheme
- Limited Registration of Dentists for postgraduate training or supervised practice – Other international graduates.
Limited Registration of Dentists - Public Sector Dental Workforce (PSDW) schemeUnder the PSDW Scheme graduates listed undergraduate dental programs with an equivalent accreditation process to Australia in Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland, Malaysia, Singapore, South Africa, United Kingdom and the United States are eligible to participate (see approved programs at ADC’s website at www.adc.org.au).
These eligible participants are granted an exemption from the ADC Preliminary Examination. Registrants in this category of registration must complete the ADC Final Examination within three years of first becoming registered by the Board.The key requirement of this category of registration is supervised practice in the dental profession and employment in an appropriate public sector program offered by a dental health service facility operated by the State or Territory government. In addition, the Board must be satisfied that the applicant is qualified for this category of Limited registration and that the applicant has completed a qualification that is relevant to, and suitable for the supervised practice.
Getting Qualified to Practice in Australia
To help you navigate the registration and assessment process seamlessly, we will guide you through the various pathways available and provide essential information on the registration and assessment requirements for your specific field of dental expertise.
Please note that the specific requirements for registration may vary depending on your qualifications and circumstances. To get started or to obtain more detailed information, we encourage you to visit the Dental Board of Australia's website or contact us to discuss your specific circumstances.
From the options below, select the tile that is the best suits you and use the drop downs to reveal details on each step of the assessment process.
How We Help
Australia beckons with its promise of professional growth, personal fulfillment, and a chance to create a lasting impact.
Join us at Local Dental Clinics, where we'll support your journey as you navigate visa opportunities, financial incentives, and the logistics of your relocation. Whether you choose to practice in picturesque Deniliquin, immerse yourself in the charm of Echuca Moama, or even opt for a combination of regional work and city life in Melbourne, we provide the resources and flexibility to make your dreams a reality.
Together, let's build a future where your dentistry skills thrive, and your desire to help others finds its true purpose.
Testimonials
Dr. Jalak Maniar
Associate Dentist
Deniliquin
Working in a regional area has been very rewarding as I have had a chance to interact with the lowest of patients who are so grateful and appreciate of the care that is provided it was my first job in Australia as a dentist and it is really helped with my career growth.
I got my accreditation during the COVID-19 lockdown. At the time, opportunities in Melbourne were very limited and I was just starting my dental career. I came across this opportunity in Deniliquin to work in state of art dental clinic with mentorship. This gave a head-start to my career as I was exposed to a wide range of cases. This facility is very advanced and has all the new technology. There is also plenty of support from Dr. Jimmi and Dr. Kritika.
While it was a big lifestyle change moving from Melbourne, there are lot of lovely people to help make the journey smooth and happy. The work life balance is great and it's not a financial trade off, there is equal or even more potential to earn in rural areas.
My experience has been nothing but great at and outside of work. It is always great career opportunity and you feel really valued and part of the community.
Dr Nidhi Aggarwal
Associate Dentist
Deniliquin
Laid back lifestyle motivated me relocate to Deniliquin. It's a very calm place, with no pollution - I love the fresh air.
People are very friendly and I believe there are enough resources here, it's all about mindset. If there are things that aren't available here, I usually order online and plan my travel to nearby places accordingly. I haven't encountered anything major so far in the last three years.
Physically meeting my family and friends are definitely been less in comparison, however my relationship has been much better as we try to connect on calls more often.
The advantages of living here are definitely living in a better environment where you're close to nature, the reduced cost of living and much better work-life balance.
You feel that you are part of the community and your work is appreciated. I enjoy the recognition which is not apparent in metropolitan cities.
Associate Dentist
Deniliquin
Deniliquin is my home town and I wanted to be closer to family and friends. It did not take me long to meet some very friendly people within the community and volunteer for local charities etc.
As I am by myself I have not had too much trouble in this area. Everything is only a stone's throw away - you can get from A to B very quickly, no more spending an hour or two each day travelling to work - which allows for more downtime and catching up with family/friends.
The lifestyle is a lot less stressful and more relaxed compared to living in the city. Being in a regional area you have more time to spend with friends and catch up with family, whether it be in person or a phone call.
I love the slower pace lifestyle - it's much more relaxing and less stressful, I have more time to focus on my health and my mental health which have both improved. The town is beautiful as well.
Moving here has given me a lot more mental clarity and helped me to release what I truly want in my life. While it's a lot more slow-paced, the sense of community is unparalleled, it is a great experience and everyone should try this even for a year or two.