When Dr Rahul Pankhaniya moved from India to Australia in 2009, he did not know what to expect. The decision to start over in a new country can be daunting, but he says he felt welcomed from the moment he arrived in Perth.
After completing accreditation through the Australian Dental Council, Dr Pankhaniya worked in several small practices before establishing his own clinic, Simple Dental, in 2014. The practice later expanded into the Simple Dental Group, now operating five clinics across Perth.
What began as informal networking with four other local dentists of Indian descent soon evolved into something bigger. The group regularly shared professional updates and advice through a WhatsApp chat and collaborated on charitable initiatives to give back to the Australian community.
In 2017, that informal circle became the Western Australian Indian Dental Association (WAIDA). Today, the not-for-profit organisation represents more than 180 dentists of Indian origin across Western Australia, with Dr Pankhaniya serving as president.
WAIDA focuses on professional development, continuing professional development (CPD) events, networking and community engagement. “We foster collaboration over competition,” Dr Pankhaniya said. “Our mission is to unite, empower and elevate dentists of Indian descent.”
Many internationally trained dentists face complex licensing requirements, job searches and unfamiliar regulations when arriving in Australia. Cultural and social adjustment can add further challenges.
Dr Pankhaniya said WAIDA was created to provide mentorship, guidance and a professional network for Indian-origin dentists navigating these transitions. The association connects members with experienced practitioners and other organisations, including the Australian Indian Medical Association.
“There is no cost to join and no membership fee,” he said. “Our goal is to help new graduates and migrant dentists settle into their careers and contribute to society.”
Corporate sponsors such as Straumann, Spark Aligners and Henry Schein now support WAIDA’s activities.
In 2024, the association held 21 events, including 12 CPD-focused programs. Monthly clinical sessions allow members to update skills and discuss emerging standards in Australian dentistry. Other activities include charity fundraisers, blood donation drives and disaster relief initiatives.
The annual WAIDA gala attracts around 400 attendees and has been hosted at major Perth venues, including Optus Stadium and Joondalup Resort.
Born in Jamnagar, Gujarat, Dr Pankhaniya graduated from Gujarat University in 2006 and later became a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists at the University of Nevada.
Community service has remained central to his work. His practices support organisations such as Red Cross Australia, Awareness Cambodia and the National Dental Foundation, as well as charities assisting survivors of domestic violence.
“While no one can completely change someone’s life, we can offer help and direction,” he said.
Dr Vipul Raval, who works at Gateways Dental Centre in Success, south of Perth, joined WAIDA in 2023. He said membership provides both professional and personal support.
“It gives me a strong sense of community,” Dr Raval said. “We share clinical knowledge, attend CPD events and stay informed about local guidelines and opportunities.”
He added that access to mentors and like-minded colleagues has strengthened his confidence. “Whenever I needed help, support was just a phone call away.”
Through WAIDA, members participate in charity dental camps, oral health awareness programs and volunteer initiatives. Clinical workshops and discussion groups also help practitioners keep pace with evolving standards.
As Western Australia’s dental workforce becomes increasingly multicultural, Dr Pankhaniya hopes WAIDA’s model can be replicated in other states.
“Diversity is about different voices and perspectives,” he said. “As older practitioners retire, more dentists from varied backgrounds are entering the profession. Strong mentorship and cultural competence are essential.”
He believes organisations like WAIDA can ease the transition for migrant professionals while strengthening Australia’s broader dental community.