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?
DAPA is hosting a FREE Webinar on WEDNESDAY 18th MARCH at 6.30pm
If you have questions or need more detail about the new classifications and rates, please register NOW!!
https://go.savemymarketing.com/HWU177
Places are stricty limited! Dont delay!
Who will be on the Panel?:
an experiencd lawyer Vita Hansen, Keypoint Law. who was part of the legal team assisting DAPA during its 2 year advocacy and preparaton of submissions to Fair Work Commission and its hearings
a highly exerienced Founder and Director of Resolve HR, Nick Hedgeswho consults to many professions including health and has a clear understanding of the unique needs of dental practice management
and Barbara Hayes President of DAPA . Certified DA with over 5 decades of experience.
Hosted by Marty Thomas, CEO of DAPA.
What will be discussed?
new wages and classifications
above award conditions (BOOT clause)
2 stepped increase - April and December
Tips for the workplace wage discussion
Register NOW!!
https://go.savemymarketing.com/HWU177
What dos this mean for you
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
THE REVISED AWARD -
When it starts-
The FWC will implement increases in two stages:
Stage 1: from 1 April 2026 to 31 December 2026 Implemented on your first full pay period from 1st April
eg - For those on weekly pay period Monday - Saturday, this will commence on 6th April.
Stage 2: from 1 January 2027 (full implementation) Implemented on your first full pay period fromr 1st January
This didn’t happen by chance:
For nearly two years, DAPA has led national advocacy, submissions, evidence and strong representation to ensure DAs are seen, heard and fairly valued.
Need clarity on what it means for you?
Award changes can be complex. If you’re unsure about your classification, when new rates apply, or how this interacts with above-Award pay, DAPA can help you understand the changes and support informed workplace conversations.
Read the full summary and tables: https://www.fwc.gov.au/documents/sites/am2024-19/2025fwcfb297.pdf
Talk to DAPA: office@dapa.asn.au | (02) 9569 3220 (Tue–Fri)
View the attachment for more information.
