Welcome to the website of the national Dental Assistants Professional Association (DAPA). The Dental Assistants Professional Association is a membership body actively representing dental assistants, receptionists and practice managers across Australia.
Are you a Dental Assisting professional looking for a change of pace?
Do you want to swap the clinical or front desk environment for a dynamic office role while still utilizing your extensive industry knowledge?
At the Dental Assistants Professional Association (DAPA), we are looking for a vibrant, detail-oriented individual to join our fantastic team in Stanmore. This is the perfect opportunity to transition your clinical expertise into a rewarding administrative career.
Your New Student Learning Portal
We are upgrading the way you manage your studies. We are moving from our old system to a new, modern portal designed to make your learning experience smoother and more accessible.
Key Features of the New Portal:
Train while you work — start your Certificate III in Dental Assisting in 2026
DAPA is now accepting Expressions of Interest for upcoming intakes of the HLT35021 Certificate III in Dental Assisting, delivered as a workplace traineeship. This flexible model allows dental assistants to gain a nationally recognised qualification while remaining fully employed.
FWC Outcome: A great win for DAs
The Fair Work Commission has handed down its final decision on the Dental Assistant pay and classification under the HPSS Award 2020, formally recognising the skills, responsibilities and contributions of DAs across Australia.
So what's changing?
Higher minimum Award rates
A new classification structure that better reflects skills, experience and responsibility
Recognition of the historic gender-based undervaluation of dental assisting work
In today's dental industry, maintaining impeccable infection control isn't just a regulatory requirement—it's the foundation of patient trust and practice excellence. At DAPA, we understand that while practitioners set the standards, the dedicated staff implements these critical procedures daily. That's why comprehensive, hands-on training for your entire Team is essential.
Introduction
Over the past twelve months, the Dental Assistants Professional Association (DAPA) has continued to build on the strong foundation established in 2024. This year was marked by delivery, growth, and momentum across training, advocacy, and member engagement. We strengthened our education programs, expanded our partnerships, and advanced DAPA’s advocacy role to ensure that Dental Assistants are recognised as vital professionals in Australia’s oral health sector.
Keep updated with industrial changes and access to our office for advice about your wage and employment conditions through membership.
Watch this space for upcoming network meetings and professional development opportunities!
Your professional body also provides advice, education and support for you and your career.
Join today!
Celebrating the Success of Our Melbourne and Sydney Conferences
I am delighted to share the outstanding success of our recent Melbourne and Sydney Dental Assistant Conferences, which together brought nearly 200 DAs for two days of learning, networking, and professional growth.
Two Days of Learning and Inspiration
The Dental Assistants Professional Association is an approved NSW Smart and Skilled* provider, and more information on this can be found at the smart and skilled website https://education.nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw
*'This training is subsidised by the NSW Government.'
