Accreditation Standards public consultation now open

The joint review of the Australian Dental Council (ADC) and Dental Council (New Zealand) (DC(NZ)) Accreditation Standards (‘the Standards’) is ongoing. The project team has recently completed a thorough review of the feedback received from the stakeholder survey. Survey results indicate that the current Standards are generally effective and functioning as intended. However, the feedback has also highlighted areas where enhancements could be made, providing the team with valuable insights to guide informed updates.

Based on this analysis, several changes have been proposed to the Accreditation Standards. These include the addition of one new criterion for Domain 2 and two new criteria for Domain 5. In addition, minor revisions to existing criteria across other Standards have been suggested to ensure continued relevance and effectiveness.

Currently, proposed revisions to Domain 6 apply only to Australia. In New Zealand, the Health Practitioners Competence Assurance Act amendment bill is scheduled to be presented to the Health select committee in early 2026. The outcome of this process will determine the strategic direction regarding cultural competence and safety. Following this, DC(NZ) will conduct its own consultation on any potential changes to Domain 6.

At this stage, feedback is invited on the draft Accreditation Standards, with the public consultation open until February 27, 2026.