Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has announced a $230 million proposal to establish 10 new public dental clinics across the state, including three in regional areas, if the Labor government is re-elected. The plan aims to offer free check-ups, fillings, root canals, and extractions to adults and children seven days a week, operating without appointments from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends.
The government stated that the network would eventually be capable of treating over 100,000 Victorians annually. Carroll framed the initiative as a critical measure to address the cost of living and a significant gap in Australia's healthcare system, noting that dental services are largely excluded from Medicare.
The announcement drew immediate criticism from the Coalition, which accused the Labor government of making unfeasible promises while existing public dental services are reportedly strained. Shadow Health Minister Georgie Crozier questioned the government's capacity to staff such an expanded network, citing issues with current services and alleging that Victorians wait seven times longer for public dental care compared to New South Wales.
Victoria's net debt is projected to reach $175.6 billion in the next financial year, making it the most indebted state in Australia. The government argues that the rising cost of dental care forces many households to delay treatment or use their superannuation savings, with an estimated 30,000 Victorians accessing their super early each year for dental procedures. Hospital admissions linked to untreated dental issues are also reportedly increasing.
Health Minister Ingrid Stitt asserted that the policy would eliminate financial barriers to seeking treatment, comparing its operational model to Labor's Medicare Urgent Care Centres.