Course Overview

About This Course

A Dental Assistant works as part of a multi disciplinary team, with a range of oral health professionals such as Dentists, Dental Specialists, Oral Health Therapists, Dental Hygienists and Dental Prosthetists. Dental Assistants will provide assistance during client service delivery and often undertake administrative tasks such as reception, appointment scheduling, payment and receipts as well as clinical management. Dental Assistants can also work as advocates in health promotion and clinic management roles. Dental assistants are often the first point of contact for clients and have the opportunity to ensure the practice is welcoming to patients.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

81 Currie St, Adelaide SA 5001Adelaide

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Adequate English language skills and numeracy skills to communicate safely and effectively in study and work environments.
Domestic applicants are required to complete relevant internal LLN skills testing or, they must successfully demonstrate exit level 2 in reading and numeracy through the CSPA test (refer EQUALS LLN Policy).
International applicants are required to demonstrate a minimum 5.5 overall band score in IELTS (or equivalent) prior to course commencement.
Physical fitness to meet industry requirements.
Before going on industry placement students are typically required to show evidence of:
- Successful completion of theory and simulated practical assessment
- Evidence of Hepatitis B immunity
- Valid DCSI Clearances for working with Aged, Vulnerable and Children
- Applicants must show adequate evidence of competency in communication skills and knowledge. In particular, applicants need to be able to read, comprehend, interpret, apply, write and share information to standards that will ensure the safety of clients in their care.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Private practices employ dental assistants in full time, part-time or casual positions. Public Health Services operate dental clinics in hospitals, schools or community based clinics, and dental assistants work with oral health therapists and dentists in these positions. Correctional Services, Defence forces and some aged care facilities provide oral health services and employ staff for these positions. Mobile dental clinics travel to aged care facilities and rural and remote areas providing dental treatment. Students who successfully complete this course may be eligible to continue further study at Diploma level in Nursing or other related health care fields.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

ASQA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units10 units

CHCCOM005

Communicate and work in health or community services

CHCDIV001

Work with diverse people

HLTDEN015

Prepare for and assist with dental procedures

HLTDEN016

Assist with dental radiography

HLTDEN017

Assist with administration in dental practice

HLTINF006

Apply basic principles and practices of infection prevention and control

HLTINF002

Process reusable medical devices and equipment

HLTWHS001

Participate in workplace health and safety

HLTDEN028

Provide effective oral hygiene instruction to patients with an oral health treatment plan

Elective unit offered by EQUALS

HLTAID011

Provide first aid

Elective unit offered by EQUALS

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the Certificate III in Dental Assisting cost?

The tuition fee for domestic students is $8,500 (with a discounted rate of $5,850 for the March 2026 intake — 15% off, T&Cs apply). Government subsidised training is available for eligible domestic students at $650 (Traineeship contract only). An Amenities Fee of $650 also applies. For international students, the tuition fee is $8,500 plus a Student Services Fee of $295 and an Amenities Fee of $650.

Is work placement included in this course, and how many hours are required?

Yes, this course includes 350 hours of industry placement in an approved industry setting. The placement is included as part of the course duration of up to 34 weeks.

What are the English language requirements for international students?

International applicants are required to demonstrate a minimum 5.5 overall band score in IELTS (or equivalent) prior to course commencement.

Is a traineeship available for this course?

Yes, a traineeship is available for this course. Eligible domestic students on a traineeship contract may access government subsidised training for a reduced fee of $650.

What further study options are available after completing this course?

Students who successfully complete the Certificate III in Dental Assisting may be eligible to continue further study at Diploma level in Nursing or other related health care fields.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $70,000 to $95,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $100,000 to $150,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $150,000 to $220,000 per year

Career Paths

General DentistOrthodontistOral and Maxillofacial SurgeonPeriodontistEndodontist

Key Skills

Clinical examination and oral health assessmentDiagnosis and treatment planning for dental conditionsRestorative dentistry techniques (fillings, crowns, bridges)Periodontal therapy and management of gum diseaseTooth extraction and minor oral surgical procedures

Full Course Overview

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