The Australian Dental Council (ADC) assesses and accredits programs of study and education providers. Graduates of Australian ADC-accredited programs are eligible to apply for registration with the Dental Board of Australia (DBA) to practice in Australia.

The ADC accredits all programs that lead to registration as a dental practitioner in Australia, including dentist, dental hygienist, dental therapist, oral health therapist, dental prosthetist plus 13 recognised specialities as well as one area of endorsement – conscious sedation.
We are not responsible for accrediting continuing professional development courses. More information regarding the requirements for continuing professional development courses is available via the Dental Board of Australia website.

The initial process for education providers seeking accreditation for a new program is as follows:

• The education provider submit a formal notice of intent to the ADC at least 18 months before the program’s intended start date. Once accepted, an accreditation visit is organised.
The education provider is requested to provide a written self-assessment before the accreditation visit using the ADC-supplied template, explaining how the program meets the Standards.
• An Accreditation Team, including dental practitioners, review evidence and meet with staff and stakeholders.
The ADC Accreditation Committee reviews the team’s report and make a decision. The DBA then decides whether to approve the program for registration purposes.
• Once approved by the DBA, the education provider can begin enrolling students.

The accreditation process can take up to 18 months to complete.
For more information about the process, please read the ADC accreditation guidelines for dental practitioner programs.