Why dental assistants belong on the 2025 Core Skills Occupations List

Many dentists know the strain of being short-staffed; patients waiting longer and teams stretched thin.  A common thread in these cases is the availability of Dental Assistants. 

The 2025 Core Skills Occupations List 

Despite being vital to the smooth running of dental practices, dental assistants remain absent from the 2025 Core Skills Occupations List (CSOL). The ADA has formally provided advice to Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA), calling for this to be reconsidered. 

In its submission, the ADA outlines why including dental assistants on the CSOL is important for strengthening workforce stability, improving retention, and supporting access to high-quality oral healthcare. 

The CSOL identifies occupations that are eligible for employer-sponsored temporary visas through the Skills in Demand program. While dentists, dental specialists, hygienists, prosthetists, technicians, and therapists are already included, dental assistants – who keep the entire team operating efficiently – are not. 

The 2025 Occupation Shortage List 

Closely linked to the CSOL, the 2025 Occupation Shortage List (OSL) pinpoints roles where employers face significant recruitment challenges. It draws on national labour market data and employer feedback to highlight areas of shortage. 

While overall national shortages have eased slightly – affecting 29% of occupations, down from 36% in 2023 – shortages in health persist. Nearly every dental profession appears “in shortage”, except dental assistants, which are not considered to be in shortage in any state or territory. 

Yet anecdotally, dentists have reported persistent recruitment and retention difficulties, with these gaps placing strains on their practices’ productivity, workforce morale, and patient access to care. 

Why inclusion on the CSOL matters 

The current workforce data suggests some instability. Dental assistants have a young median age of 30, and only 45% work full-time. Some leave for industries offering higher wages or less training, while TAFEs continue to face challenges in securing sufficient clinical placements – an area where practices can make a difference by supporting student placements. 

Without access to temporary skilled visa pathways, some practices – particularly in rural and regional areas – can struggle to manage staffing levels. Adding dental assistants to the CSOL could lead to practices being able to sponsor qualified international candidates, improving workforce balance and clinic operations. 

Support the call for change 

The ADA’s submission details evidence, workforce insights, and practical recommendations behind this call for action. Dentists and practice owners are encouraged to review it, share it, and champion the message within their branches and networks.