The proposal, announced by Labor as part of its health policy platform, aims to improve access to dental care for Victorians who cannot afford private treatment. However, the Australian Dental Association Victoria (ADAV) has pushed back, arguing that the government cannot simply open new clinics without addressing the chronic shortage of dentists, oral health therapists, and dental assistants.
'Who will staff them?' the ADAV said in a statement. 'We already have public dental clinics with patients waiting years for basic care. Throwing more clinics into the system without a workforce plan will only stretch resources thinner and increase wait times.'
Labor has defended the plan, stating that it will invest in training and recruitment alongside the clinic infrastructure. A party spokesperson said the policy is part of a broader oral health strategy that includes incentives for dentists to work in the public sector and expanded university places. 'Victorians deserve timely, affordable dental care. We cannot let workforce excuses prevent us from addressing a glaring gap in our health system,' the spokesperson said.
Critics, however, question whether the workforce targets are achievable. The dental profession has faced a longstanding shortage, particularly in regional areas, and the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated backlogs. Private sector groups have also warned that public clinics could draw dentists away from private practice, reducing overall access for patients who use private insurance.
The debate comes ahead of the state election, expected later this year, where health policy is a central issue. The current Victorian government has not yet responded to Labor's pledge but has previously expanded public dental services through the 'Smile Squad' school program.
The ADAV has called for a comprehensive workforce review before any new clinics are opened, warning that without proper planning the policy risks being a damaging stunt rather than a solution.