Having access to affordable dental care is crucial for every child’s health and development. In Australia, the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is designed to help eligible families access essential dental services without the financial burden. But what exactly is this scheme, who can benefit, and how do you claim it?
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Child Dental Benefits Schedule 2025, including eligibility, covered services, how to check your balance, and how to make a claim. We’ll also highlight key state-specific details for families in Victoria and other parts of Australia.
Table of Contents
What is the Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)?
The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) is a Medicare-supported government initiative that offers fundamental dental services to children between 0 and 17 years who meet the eligibility criteria. The program offers up to $1,132 in dental benefits over two consecutive calendar years.
This scheme aims to promote preventive care and early dental intervention, ensuring children have the best start to lifelong oral health.
Child Dental Benefits Schedule Income Test
To be eligible for the CDBS, a family must:
- Receive a government payment such as the Family Tax Benefit Part A, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, Carer Payment, or other eligible Centrelink payments.
- The child must be between 0 and 17 years old for at least 1 day in the calendar year.
- Be eligible for Medicare.
Tip: Eligibility is automatically determined by Medicare each calendar year. There’s no need to submit any application—just make sure your Centrelink information is up to date.
How to Check Your Child’s Dental Benefit Balance
Want to know how much of your $1,132 entitlement you’ve used? Here’s how:
- Through Medicare Online:
- Log in to your Medicare account or use the Express Plus Medicare mobile app.
- Go to Claims History or Benefits to view your CDBS balance.
- Ask Your Dentist:
- Your dental provider can check the remaining balance before treatment begins.
- Call Medicare:
- You can call Medicare at 132 011 to check your child’s eligibility and remaining balance.
What Dental Services are Covered by Medicare Australia Under CDBS?
The CDBS supports access to multiple essential dental care services, including:
- Examinations
- X-rays
- Cleanings
- Fissure sealants
- Fillings
- Root canal treatments
- Extractions
What’s not covered:
- Orthodontic treatments (e.g., braces)
- Cosmetic dental procedures (e.g., teeth whitening)
- Services provided in hospitals
Always check with your provider if a procedure is covered before commencing treatment.
Medicare Child Dental Benefits Scheme Eligibility
Still unsure if your child qualifies? Here’s a quick checklist:
- Age between 0 and 17 years
- Receives eligible Centrelink benefits
- Registered for Medicare
How to Claim Child Dental Benefits Schedule
You can claim CBDS in two main ways:
Bulk Billing (Most Common)
If your dentist offers bulk billing through the CDBS, you won’t have to pay out of pocket. Simply:
- Book an appointment
- Confirm your child’s eligibility
- Sign a consent form before treatment
- The dental clinic bills Medicare directly
Pay and Claim
If your clinic doesn’t bulk bill:
- Pay upfront
- Claim your rebate easily through the Express Plus Medicare app or your online Medicare portal.
Child Dental Benefits Scheme VIC and Other States in Australia
The CDBS is a national program, meaning it applies across all Australian states and territories, including:
- Victoria (VIC)
- New South Wales (NSW)
- Queensland (QLD)
- Western Australia (WA)
- South Australia (SA)
- Tasmania (TAS)
- Northern Territory (NT)
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Regardless of where you live, your child can access services through any dental clinic that participates in the CDBS.
Why is My Child Not Eligible for CDBS?
If your child is not eligible, here are common reasons why:
- Your family does not receive an eligible Centrelink payment
- Your child was not aged between 0–17 at any point in the calendar year
- Your child is not registered with Medicare
- You’ve already exhausted the $1,132 benefit cap over two years
If you’re unsure, contact Medicare or check your online account for a detailed status.
Child Dental Benefits Schedule 2025: What’s New?
The CDBS will continue in 2025, maintaining its benefit cap of $1,132 for two consecutive years. As of now, no major changes to the scheme have been announced for 2025.
Keep an eye on Services Australia or subscribe to updates to stay informed about potential future adjustments.
FAQs
How do I find out if my child qualifies for the CDBS?
Log in to your Medicare online account or contact Medicare at 132 011. You may also receive a letter from Medicare confirming your child’s eligibility.
Can I use CDBS at a private dentist?
Yes, if the dentist accepts CDBS and offers bulk billing or private billing with claim-back options.
Is there a waiting period for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule?
No. If your child is eligible and hasn’t used up their benefit cap, they can receive services immediately.
What if I don’t spend the entire amount?
The $1,132 cap is spread over two calendar years. If you don’t use it in the first year, you can carry the remaining balance into the second, but it does not roll over after that.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Miss Out on Free Dental Care for Your Child
Dental health is a key part of your child’s overall well-being, and the Child Dental Benefits Schedule makes it easier for families to access essential dental services without financial stress.
If your child is eligible, don’t wait—make the most of the benefits before the two-year cap resets!
📞 Claim Up to $1,132 in Child Dental Benefits if Eligible! 💰🦷
Call us today to check your child’s eligibility and book a Same Day Dentist Appointment with our caring team.
Richmond Dental Group (Abbotsford) 📞 03 9428 9102
Springvale Dental Group (Springvale) 📞 03 9558 5756
Our experienced team offers bulk billing under CDBS so you can focus on your child’s smile—not your wallet.
Terms and conditions apply.
