Oral health study options for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

​​​​Build a career with real opportunities, from traineeships and cadetships to specialist and leadership roles. Wherever you start, there’s a path for you to grow, step up, and thrive. ​​

There are programs available to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to study towards a career in oral health.

These programs also provide eligible students with financial incentives and support while you complete your studies. You could also be eligible for financial support if you are a student or graduate ​committed to working with NSW Health. Visit ​Tertiary Health Study Subsidies for more information.

TAFE NSW, Certificate III an​d IV in Dental Assisting

In collaboration with the University of Sydney Dental Assisting Scholarship ​Program, TAFE NSW offers support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to complete a Certificate III in Dental Assisting [HLT35021] for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People​ or Certificate IV in Dental Assisting Oral Health Promotion [HLT45021] for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander People.​

Through a combination of virtual theory and face-to-face clinical experience, you will develop skills and knowledge to contribute to running a dental practice. This will include assisting with procedures, sterilising equipment, radiography, oral hygiene, and practice administration.

If eligible, your training, travel and associated course costs will be covered while you complete your studies.

On completion of this qualification, you may be eligible for a direct entry pathway into the University of Sydney Bachelor of Oral Health. (Note: eligibility criteria apply).

For further information about starting a career in oral health, please email Mr Clinton Cooke Meyer: Clinton.Cooke1@tafens​w.edu.au​​​

University of Sydney Bachelor of Oral Health Pathway

A direct entry pathway is available for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicants wanting to study a Bachelor of Oral Health degree through the University of Sydney.

To be eligible, you must complete a HLT35021 course through TAFE NSW, and apply through the University of Sydney’s Gadigal entry scheme.

Once you have completed your Bachelor of Oral Health, you will be eligible to apply for entry into the University of Sydney’s Doctor of Dental Medicine.

For more information about starting a career in oral health please email Ms Erin Taylor: e.taylor@sydney.edu.au

For more information about the Bachelor of Oral Health Pathway, visit the University of Sydney.

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Together, we thrive

Visit the careers page for more pathways, programs, scholarships, and cadetships.

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Current as at: Tuesday 7 July 2026