In a move to strengthen the state’s oral health services, eleven new dental graduates have joined the Tasmanian Health Service, helping to meet growing demand and expand dental care availability across the state. This group includes eight Graduate Oral Health Therapists and three Graduate Dentists, who have relocated from interstate and overseas to start their professional careers in Tasmania.
The new graduates will contribute to a variety of public dental services, including emergency care, general dental services, denture clinics for adults, and specialized care for children and adolescents. These recruits are strategically placed throughout Tasmania: five in the south, three in the north, and three in the northwest.
Their arrival aligns with the Tasmanian Government’s pledge to provide an additional 20,000 public dental appointments, a promise made during the 2024 State Election. This expanded workforce will play a vital role in fulfilling this commitment and ensuring the state’s oral health services meet the needs of the community.
As part of the Oral Health Services Tasmania Graduate Program, the new cohort will receive structured clinical training and professional support, designed to help them develop their skills and grow as dental professionals. This program provides a supportive environment for new graduates to start their careers and gain valuable mentorship.
To welcome and support the graduates, a two-day training workshop was held in Hobart in mid-February. This workshop, organized in partnership with Brand Tasmania, included a visit to Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary and a cultural experience with the company ‘Palawa Kipli,’ which introduced the graduates to Tasmanian Aboriginal food and culture.
Several of the graduates shared their excitement about their move to Tasmania. Graduate Oral Health Therapist Dylan, who relocated from New Zealand’s North Island, expressed his enthusiasm for the training opportunities and the beauty of Tasmania, especially Launceston. “The service delivery here really meets my needs, with good training and mentoring opportunities. It’s also a beautiful place with great food,” he said.
Courtney, another Graduate Oral Health Therapist from New Zealand, spoke about her background as a dental assistant and her passion for working with children. “I want to make a difference by giving kids a positive dental experience,” she said. She also looked forward to enjoying Tasmania’s hiking and camping opportunities.
Dr. Ioan Jones, Clinical Director for Oral Health Services Tasmania, praised the graduates for their enthusiasm and commitment. “It’s fantastic to be surrounded by such a wonderful group of young professionals who are eager to contribute to our services. Their energy and dedication to improving oral health in Tasmania are truly inspiring,” he said.
With the arrival of these new graduates, Tasmania’s public dental services are poised for significant growth, offering enhanced care and support to communities across the state.
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