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.
Advancing Professional Development
Education and professional growth remained at the heart of DAPA’s mission. This year saw the successful launch of the Certificate IV in Dental Assisting, opening pathways for advanced clinical and leadership roles. The roll-out of our new ‘aNewSpring’ Learning Management System provided a modern, flexible training environment for students and employers alike. Our pre-employment and Targeted Needs Initiative (TNI) programs continued to attract strong participation, placing job-ready graduates directly into dental practices nationwide.
Advocating for Fairness and Recognition
In 2025, DAPA deepened its national advocacy presence. Our ongoing engagement with the Fair Work Commission’s gender undervaluation review resulted in the formal recognition of the ‘invisible skills’ Dental Assistants bring to infection control and patient care. The reclassification and wage adjustments achieved in this process were significant milestones for the profession. DAPA also submitted to the Department of Human Ability on micro-credentialing and the national skills agenda, further shaping the modernisation of DA training.
DAPA strengthened its influence through full membership of the National Oral Health Alliance (NOHA) and participation in the NSW Seniors Oral Health Alliance, ensuring our members’ voices are represented in every conversation about Australia’s oral health future.
Financial Performance Overview
For the financial year ending 30 June 2025, DAPA recorded continued growth in education revenue and membership engagement but experienced a modest operating deficit following strategic investments in conferences, legal advocacy, and system modernisation. Overall, DAPA remains financially strong, with solid reserves and a growing asset base.
While income increased by 18 per cent, expenditure rose primarily due to increased staffing, legal representation for the Fair Work Commission case, and building renovation costs. Despite a modest deficit, DAPA’s asset position and cash reserves remain healthy, ensuring sustainability for the year ahead.
Re-establishing the DAPA Brand: Conferences and Events
DAPA’s brand presence grew stronger through a successful 2025 Conference Series. The ‘DAPA Big Day Out’ events in Melbourne and Sydney celebrated innovation, sustainability, and leadership, drawing nearly 170 delegates and multiple sponsors, including Pacific Smiles and National Dental Care. These events showcased the strength of the DA community and reinforced DAPA’s position as a unifying voice for the profession.
Building on a Foundation of Growth and Stability
Internally, DAPA continued investing in organisational capability. System upgrades to VETTrak and LMS automation improved efficiency, and the Stanmore property continues to perform well with stable tenancy and rental income. Staff recruitment, particularly within the RTO and administration functions, further strengthened our delivery capacity.
Looking Ahead
As we move into 2026, DAPA will continue to strengthen the recruitment, training and retention pipeline, expand skills development and CPD programs, and advance our advocacy for national recognition and registration., With our members’ support, we remain committed to elevating the profession and ensuring Dental Assistants are recognised for their expertise, care, and contribution to the health of all Australians.
Martin Thomas
Chief Executive Officer