Over 1.5 Million Australian Children Missing Out on Free Dental Benefits

Dental health is crucial for children, but according to a recent ABC News report (1 August 2025), more than 1.5 million Australian children who are eligible for the government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) are not using this free dental care.

This means many kids may be missing out on regular check-ups, cleanings, fillings, and other basic dental services, increasing the risk of cavities and other oral health issues.

“This is a confusing program for families — over 1.5 million Australian children are missing out,” said ADA President Chris Sanzaro. “The government needs to do more to make families aware of this benefit so children can get the care they need.”— ABC News, 1 August 2025

What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?

CDBS is a government-funded program that helps families access basic dental services for children aged 0–17.

• Each eligible child can receive up to $1,132 over two consecutive calendar years
• Covered services include: check-ups, X-rays, cleanings, fissure sealants, fillings, root canals, extractions, and partial dentures

This program aims to reduce the financial barrier for families and promote better oral health from an early age.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for CDBS, a child must:

• Be 0–17 years old
• Have Medicare eligibility
• Belong to a family that receives at least one of the following government payments:
  • Family Tax Benefit Part A
  • Parenting Payment
  • Double Orphan Pension
  • Youth Allowance
  • Disability Support Pension
  • Carer Payment
  • Special Benefit
  • Department of Veterans’ Affairs Education Allowance (for children aged 16–17)

💡 Tip: Unsure if your child qualifies? You can check via myGov or call Medicare at 132 011.

Why Are So Many Children Missing Out?

ADA and government data reveal that:

• Only 36% of eligible families actually used CDBS
• In 2024, around 2.6 million children were eligible, but fewer than 1 million dental services were provided
• Many parents are unsure about eligibility or how to use the service

This gap highlights the importance of spreading awareness so families can take full advantage of CDBS.

How to Use CDBS

1. Book a dental appointment: Contact a private or public dental clinic and mention you want to use CDBS
2. Check eligibility and available balance: The dentist will confirm your child’s eligibility and remaining balance. You can also check through myGov
3. Agree on treatment plan: The dentist will discuss proposed treatments and any costs before starting
4. Payment and claims:

• • If the dentist offers bulk billing, you don’t pay out of pocket
  • If you pay first, you can claim the costs back from Medicare

Parent Tips

• No separate application is needed; eligible children receive a confirmation notice
• Take your child for regular check-ups to catch cavities or other dental issues early
• Maintain daily oral hygiene: brushing, flossing, and limiting sugary snacks

Summary

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is an invaluable program that helps families cover dental costs and protect children’s teeth.

However, as ABC News reported, over 1.5 million children are missing out. Parents should check eligibility and make full use of this benefit, helping children develop healthy dental habits from an early age.

💡 Remember: Prevention, regular check-ups, and good daily care—combined with government support—are the key to strong, healthy teeth for your child!

Sources:

• ABC News, “More than one million children missing out on free dental scheme,” 1 August 2025, link
• Services Australia, Child Dental Benefits Schedule, link