Millions of Australian families can get $1132 from the government through Centrelink to pay for their children’s dental care. Most people are not claiming this money. The Child Dental Benefits Schedule provides funding for basic dental services for children aged 2 to 17 years. Parents can use this benefit to cover check-ups, cleaning, fillings and other essential treatments at bulk-billing dental clinics. Many families do not know this program exists. Others forget to check if they qualify. The money goes unused even though dental costs keep rising across the country. Families receiving certain Centrelink payments automatically qualify for the dental benefit. This includes those on Family Tax Benefit Part A or other income support payments. The government adds eligible children to the program without requiring an application. The benefit provides $1132 per child over two calendar years. Families do not receive cash directly. Instead, dentists claim the payment after providing approved services. Parents pay nothing at bulk-billing practices or receive a reduced bill at other clinics. Eligible families should check their myGov account to see if their children are listed in the program. They can then book appointments at participating dental practices. The benefit covers preventive and restorative care but does not include orthodontic treatment or cosmetic procedures. Dental health affects overall wellbeing and school performance. Regular check-ups help catch problems early before they become serious and expensive. Using this government support means children get necessary care without financial stress on families. Parents who think they might qualify should contact Centrelink or visit the Services Australia website for more information. Taking advantage of this benefit could save families hundreds of dollars while keeping children’s teeth healthy.
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule helps pay for basic dental care for children whose families get specific Centrelink payments like Family Tax Benefit Part A or Parenting Payment. The program gives families up to $1132 over a two year period.
Around 2.4 million children qualify for the scheme but only 600000 Australians have used it during the first six months of this year. The program remains underutilized even though a large number of families could benefit from it. Many eligible parents have not yet taken advantage of the available support. Officials are working to increase awareness about the scheme and make it easier for families to access. They hope more people will participate in the coming months as information spreads through communities.
Who is eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
- Your child must be under 18 and eligible for Medicare.
- Your family must receive an eligible payment from Services Australia, such as the Family Tax Benefit A or Parenting Payment.
- Your child could also be receiving payments like Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY, or Disability Support Pension to be eligible.
- Services Australia will usually send you a letter if your child is eligible.
How do I claim the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
The scheme provides coverage for several dental services including check-ups and x-rays as well as cleaning and fillings and root canals. You cannot use it for orthodontics or cosmetic dental work though.
The system operates on a use it or lose it principle. The two-year timeframe begins at the start of the calendar year when your child qualifies and gets their first dental treatment.
You can claim the benefit when you pay at the dentist or get it directly from Services Australia if your dentist does not bulk bill. Services Australia will deposit the benefit into your bank account.
You should check with your dentist about whether your child qualifies for the scheme before you book a dental appointment.
