2025 Federal Election
It’s Time to Act for Seniors
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) has repeatedly called on the Federal Government to address the urgent need for additional, targeted, and sustainable funding to meet the oral and dental health care needs of those in our community who are unable to access dental care.
This federal election, the ADA is strongly advocating to improve the oral health of our most vulnerable cohort, older Australians.
It is not news that older Australians face additional health problems and challenges in accessing dental care compared to the rest of the population. This situation has previously been well defined in the Final Report of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety and the Senate Inquiry into the Provision of and Access to Dental Services in Australia. Among the many findings of both processes was the level of disease and neglect.
Some older Australians are avoiding eating due to pain, lack of teeth or ill-fitting dentures. They have a higher level of gum disease and there are alarming trends in the number of over 65s requiring hospital care for preventable dental problems. The situation for aged care residents is often even worse.
The ADA says the time for describing the problem is over. It’s “Time to Act”.
We are urging major political parties to prioritise oral health in the upcoming federal election, with a particular emphasis on establishing a Seniors Dental Benefits Schedule. This initiative aims to provide essential dental care to older Australians, addressing a critical gap in the current healthcare system.
We recommend:
- Providing targeted funding through a Seniors Dental Benefits Schedule (SDBS) up to specified limits for holders of Commonwealth seniors’ health cards, pensioner concession cards and health care cards who are 65 years or older; and
- Building oral health for over 75s into existing Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) health assessment items so that problems can be identified earlier.
The need for a Seniors Dental Benefits Schedule
Oral health is a vital component of overall well-being, yet many seniors face significant barriers to accessing affordable dental care. The absence of comprehensive dental coverage leaves older Australians vulnerable to oral diseases, which can exacerbate other health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.
The ADA highlights that untreated dental issues not only diminish quality of life but also lead to increased healthcare costs due to the interconnected nature of oral and general health.
Our proposal includes a schedule of services that will cover:
- Preventive care.
- Restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, and dentures to restore function and aesthetics.
- Emergency services and access to address acute issues promptly.
Current challenges
Despite the critical importance of oral health, Health Minister Mark Butler has stated that expanding Medicare to include dental services is not a current priority, citing an estimated cost of $45 billion over four years. This stance has been met with concern from various stakeholders who emphasise the long-term benefits of integrating dental care into the national healthcare system.
Political landscape
While some members of the Labor Party have expressed support for including dental care in Medicare, the Government has not committed to this expansion.
The ADA is calling on all political parties to recognise the importance of oral health and to commit to a policy which ensures seniors have access to the dental care they need.
As the 2025 federal election approaches, the ADA emphasises that oral health should be a national priority. Implementing a Seniors Dental Benefits Schedule represents a crucial step toward equitable healthcare, ensuring that older Australians receive the comprehensive care necessary for their overall health and well-being.
ADA members can make an impact at this Federal Election
The upcoming federal election is a pivotal moment to secure lasting change for senior dental care in Australia, and your voice as an ADA member is crucial to making this happen. Seniors across Australia are facing significant barriers to accessing affordable, essential dental care, leaving their oral health and overall well-being, at risk.
By supporting this key advocacy campaign led by the ADA, you can help influence future policies that will shape the future of senior dental care. We encourage you to:
- write to your local MP or candidates expected to contest the next federal election;
- share campaign materials with your patients and dental networks;
- host discussions within your community about the importance of oral health for older Australians;
- engage with local or national media to put these policies on the national agenda.
Together, we can ensure this critical issue is at the forefront of the election conversation. Your involvement sends a powerful signal to policymakers, the media, and the public that the dental community is united in addressing the growing needs of older Australians.
Access our 2025 Federal Election assets
Promote the campaign on your social media platforms.
The campaign explained in a highly visual, informative way for use on socials, emails etc.
Grab attention with this catchy animated video.
A template you can customise when speaking about the campaign.
Deliver your message succinctly and with impact.
Tips for explaining the campaign at your practice or clinic.
Your customisable letter to mail in or email.
All the main points of the issue at the heart of the campaign.
