Health Funds and Government Schemes

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule is a government-funded Medicare program that helps cover the cost of basic dental services for eligible children aged 0 to 17.

Who is eligible

Generally, a child is eligible if they are:

• Aged 0 to 17 at any point in the calendar year
• Eligible for Medicare
• Receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A or another relevant Australian Government payment at some point in the year, or with a parent, carer or guardian who does

What the benefit covers

Eligible children can receive up to $1,158 in benefits over two consecutive calendar years when their two-year period starts in 2026. For children whose period started in 2025, the cap is $1,132. The cap is indexed each year and depends on eligibility.

The CDBS covers basic dental services, such as:

• Examinations
• X-rays
• Cleaning
• Fluoride treatment
• Fissure sealants
• Fillings
• Root canals
• Extractions
• Partial dentures

What it does not cover

• Orthodontic treatment, such as braces
• Cosmetic treatment
• Services provided in hospital

How to access it

You can check your child's eligibility and remaining balance through your Medicare online account in myGov (select History and statements, then Child Dental Benefits Schedule). You can also ask our team at the appointment, and we will check for you.

Please bring your child's Medicare card to the appointment.

Ask our team how CDBS billing works at our practice.

Child Dental Benefits Schedule on the Services Australia website

Benefit amounts and eligibility are set by the Australian Government and may change. Please contact us or Services Australia to confirm your child's eligibility.