From 1 July 2021
From the first full pay period starting on or after (ppc) 1 July 2021, private sector dental hygienists became covered by the Health Services Award.
They're classified as health professionals. Their classification level depended on their experience, qualifications and duties.
From 1 October 2026
From ppc 1 October 2026 dental hygienists are classified as Health Professional employees – Level 1 – AQF Level 7 on commencement. Their minimum pay rate will depend on the number of years they've worked in the profession.
For more information, see Changes to the Health Services Award - Fair Work Ombudsman.
Before 1 July 2021
Before ppc 1 July 2021, private sector dental hygienists weren’t covered by an award.
They were entitled to at least the national minimum wage and the National Employment Standards.
References
What to do next
- Find out more about industry and occupation awards at About awards
- Our Award classifications page covers how to read and apply classification descriptions in awards
- We also have Award summaries of who is and isn’t covered by awards
- Ask our virtual assistant, Frankie, a question from our Contact us page.
