As a newly registered dental practitioner, the early career dental practitioner program will help you transition from academic learning into professional practice. You’ll work in a supportive, inclusive environment that will encourage you to grow and develop.

As you begin your career with Queensland Health, we’ll give you the things you need to succeed like:

  • mentoring
  • structured education
  • hands-on experience.

You’ll work across a variety of settings and gain exposure to a wide range of clinical experiences.

About the program

During the 12 month program we’ll help you to build skills and confidence and give you a solid foundation for your dental career. All of your training will be in your working hours.

You’ll cover important topics including:

  • public health dentistry principles
  • equity of care and social determinants of health
  • patient-centred care and communication
  • comprehensive care and clinical safety
  • infection prevention and control
  • time management and clinical handover.

The program includes:

  • online CPD lectures
  • one-on-one mentoring with senior clinicians
  • second opinion case study sessions with peers and mentor feedback
  • clinical rotations in diverse settings like oral surgery, allied health and dental specialities
  • final case presentations.

By the end of the program you’ll be able to:

  • competently diagnose dental and oral health issues
  • create treatment plans
  • perform a wide range of dental procedures.

Who can apply?

To join the program you’ll need to:

  • be currently employed as a dental practitioner by Queensland Health
  • work at least 4 days a week
  • have graduated in 2024 as a dentist or oral health therapist.

How to apply

Expressions of interest are now open. Apply using our application portal. Applications close at 11:59 pm on 31 March 2025.

For more information contact: qh_ecdpp@health.qld.gov.au.