Chris Sanzaro, President of the Australian Dental Association (ADA), recently stated that while the Child Dental Benefit Scheme (CDBS) provides free dental services to millions of eligible children, more than 1.5 million children are missing out.
Data shows that only approximately 36% of eligible families actually take advantage of the program. An ADA survey of 25,000 adults also revealed widespread misconceptions and lack of information about the program. Many parents are unaware of the program’s existence or their children’s eligibility, resulting in a significant number of children missing out on timely dental care.
According to federal government statistics, by 2024, approximately 2.6 million children will be eligible for the CDBS, but fewer than one million services will have been received.
Dr. Sanzaro noted, “There are significant information gaps and confusion surrounding the program, and the government urgently needs to improve its outreach to ensure eligible families are aware of and using it.”
The CDBS provides up to A$1,132 over two years for basic dental services for each eligible child aged 17 and under, including dental exams, X-rays, cleanings, fillings, root canals, extractions, and preventive measures like sealants. Eligible children are primarily from low- to moderate-income families receiving Family Tax Benefit A.
The ADA survey also found that many parents mistakenly believe the benefit is only available through the public dental system; in fact, private dentists also participate in the program.
Since its implementation in January 2014, the CDBS has disbursed A$3.6 billion in benefits, covering 3.8 million children and providing 58.5 million services.
A spokesperson for the Australian Department of Health said the department is working with Services Australia and state and territory governments to increase public awareness and utilization of the CDBS and promote the service through the public dental system.
At the same time, for families with private health insurance, some dental services such as cleanings and examinations may also be covered by insurance, with the specific scope varying depending on the insurance policy.