The Government understands working families need access to high-quality health care and is investing in a strong public health system for the future.
Improving hospitals and health services
Teen Dental Plan
Brian and Brenda want to keep their children's teeth in good health but worry about the cost of going to the dentist. They have two children, Kyle and Caitlin. Kyle is aged 13 and his older sister Caitlin is 16 years of age.
As they receive Family Tax Benefit Part A, Brian and Brenda's family are eligible for a dental rebate under the Government's Teen Dental Plan. After 1 July 2008, they will be able to claim up to $150 per year for a preventative dental check for each of their teenage children.
This means Brian and Brenda can receive up to $300 a year to help them with the dental costs of looking after Kyle's and Caitlin's teeth.
The Government understands that it is important to be able to access high quality, affordable health care. That is why the Government is providing $3.2 billion for health and hospital reform. This includes $600 million to slash elective surgery waiting lists in public hospitals, and $275 million to establish GP Super Clinics in local communities.
Many Australians avoid visiting the dentist because of the cost involved. To help address this, the Government is providing $491 million for a Teen Dental Plan. Eligible families will be able to claim up to $150 per year for a preventative dental check for each of their teenage children. This will make it more affordable for families to access dental services.
The Government has also committed to an immediate injection of $1 billion to relieve the pressure on public hospitals for the benefit of our community.
In addition, the Government will re‑focus our health system towards prevention. Bowel cancer screening will now include 50‑year‑olds, boosting early detection of cancer. Children will be encouraged to develop healthy eating habits, and a basic health check will be available for all children when they start school.
