What the Fair Work Commission (FWC) decision means for you.
After nearly two years of sustained national advocacy led by DAPA, the Fair Work Commission has handed down its final decision on Dental Assistant pay and classifications under the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (HPSS Award).
This is a significant and positive milestone for our profession.
The decision officially recognises the skills, responsibilities and value of Dental Assistants across Australia. It also introduces permanent Award changes, including higher minimum pay rates and a new classification structure that better reflects the complexity of today’s roles.
This live webinar has been designed to explain the decision in plain English – what’s changing, when it’s happening and how you can confidently prepare for workplace conversations.
ABOUT THE SESSION
This session focuses on helping you understand the FWC decision, the implementation timeline and how to navigate next steps.
-
Understand what the Commission has decided and why it matters
-
Recognise what “structural Award changes” mean in practical terms
-
Learn when the new minimum rates take effect and how the two-stage implementation works
-
Understand the new classification structure and what it is designed to reflect
-
Prepare for respectful workplace conversations using accurate, evidence-based information
-
Separate facts from misinformation circulating online
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
-
Dental Assistants at any stage of their career
-
Senior Dental Assistants reviewing their classification
-
Practice Managers preparing for Award updates
-
Anyone seeking clear, practical information about the changes
WHAT TO EXPECT
-
A clear breakdown of the decision
-
Practical guidance on preparing for workplace discussions
-
Clarity around implementation timing (one of the most common questions raised so far)
-
Insights into how practices may approach the transition
-
Live Q&A with legal and sector representatives
MEET YOUR EXPERTS
Barbara Hayes
Board Chair | DAPA
Marty Thomas
CEO | DAPA
Vita Hansen
Lawyer | Keypoint Law
Nick Hedges
HR Specialist | Resolve HR
Join us to understand what’s changing, what it means for you and how to move forward informed and confident.
-
Date: Wednesday, 18 March 2026
-
Time: 6:30pm-7:30pm (AEDT)
-
Format: Live online webinar via Zoom
-
Cost: Free
© 2025 Copyrights by Dental Assistance Professional Association. All Rights Reserved.
Ph - (02) 9569 3220