New veteran dental-care arrangements
New dental-care arrangements for veterans will see easier access to more dental providers and increase the money veterans can access for costly dental work up front.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Matt Keogh said that following feedback from veterans and the dental sector, funding for Schedule C items under DVA’s Dental Program would double by switching from an annual to a biennial monetary limit.
“Schedule C includes high-cost treatments such as crowns, bridges and veneers,” Minister Keogh said.
“This means that from 1 January 2026 to 31 December 2027, the biennial monetary limit for Schedule C dental items is $5,980.30.
“This change applies to subsequent two-year periods and is subject to indexation.
“This doubling of the cap will help ensure veterans are not left out of pocket when paying for high-cost, clinically required restorative items.”
Funding is available to eligible veterans with assessed clinical need and a Veteran Gold Card, or a White Card with related accepted conditions.
Dental therapists, hygienists and oral-health therapists who are registered with the Dental Board of Australia have also been added to the approved list of dental service providers.
Minister Keogh said this meant these professions could now provide and directly claim for treatment within their scope of practice, enhancing choice and making it easier for veterans to access a dental practitioner suited to their needs.
“These changes are about giving veterans greater flexibility and financial support when accessing dental care, particularly costly procedures,” he said.
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FILE PHOTO (for illustrative purposes only): Australian Army officer Captain Steve Ceccato, a dentist in the field hospital facility at the Shoalwater Bay Training Area in North Queensland during Exercise Talisman Saber. Photo by Leading Seaman Jake Badior.
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