The Turnbull Government is increasing the rebate available under the Child Dental Benefit Scheme (CDBS) to $1000 per child for treatment over a two year period.
We are committed to ensuring that kids right across Australia – both in cities and remote areas – have access to the dentist when they need it.
Under the scheme, on average only $312 of rebate has been claimed per child each year.
In light of this, the Government had previously set the cap at $700 per child over a two year period, which would still allow children to visit a dentist regularly.
However, following consultation with the Australian Dental Association, I have decided to reinstate the cap at $1000.
I have signed this into law today.
We are also providing $11 million over two years to the Royal Flying Doctor Service to deliver dental outreach services to rural and remote communities.
The Turnbull Government is delivering on its commitment to improve the dental health of all Australians through the CDBS and contribute to better public dental services through a National Partnership Agreement with the states and territories.
(ENDS)