What is the minimum wage for a dental assistant?

Dental assistants are covered by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award. The minimum hourly rate depends on classification and experience. For example, a Level 3 dental assistant (unqualified with less than 12 months experience) earns at least $29.11 per hour, while a Level 7 (Certificate IV or equivalent) earns at least $31.67 per hour. These rates are higher than the national minimum wage of $26.44 per hour.

Do junior dental assistants get paid less?

Yes. Under the award, junior employees (under 21) are paid a percentage of the adult rate for their classification. For example, a 17-year-old dental assistant at Level 3 would receive 60% of $29.11, which is $17.47 per hour. The percentages are: under 17 – 50%, 17 – 60%, 18 – 70%, 19 – 80%, 20 – 90%.

Is superannuation included in the pay rate?

No. Superannuation is paid on top of the minimum hourly rate. Employers must contribute at least 12% of ordinary time earnings to a super fund. For a Level 3 dental assistant working 38 hours per week, the super contribution would be an additional $132.74 per week.

Dental Assistant Salary: Award Minimum Rates and What They Mean

The minimum hourly rate for a dental assistant covered by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award ranges from $29.11 to $31.67 depending on classification, with superannuation of 12% on top.

Understanding the Dental Assistant Salary Floor

When searching for a dental assistant salary in Australia, it is essential to separate the legal minimum from survey averages, award rates, and individually negotiated salaries. The legal minimum for most dental assistants is set by the Health Professionals and Support Services Award 2020 (the Health Services Award), which covers employees in private dental practices, public hospitals, and other health settings. This award provides a higher floor than the national minimum wage.

Award Classification and Minimum Rates

The Fair Work Ombudsman publishes the current pay rates for the Health Services Award. As of the latest adjustments (effective from 1 October 2026), dental assistants are classified into Levels 3, 5, 6, and 7 based on qualifications and industry experience. The minimum hourly rates are:

Level 3 (unqualified with less than 12 months experience): $29.11 per hour ($1,106.20 per week)
Level 5 (unqualified with 12 months to up to 4 years experience): $29.15 per hour ($1,107.80 per week)
Level 6 (Certificate III or equivalent, or 4+ years experience): $30.63 per hour ($1,163.90 per week)
Level 7 (Certificate IV or equivalent): $31.67 per hour ($1,203.50 per week)

These rates apply to full-time employees working an average of 38 hours per week. Part-time and casual employees receive the same hourly rate, with casuals also entitled to a 25% loading (included in the casual rate shown in the award).

How the Award Rate Compares to the National Minimum

The national minimum wage from 1 July 2026 is $26.44 per hour ($1,004.90 per week). Even the lowest dental assistant classification under the award is $2.67 per hour higher. This means that if you are covered by the award, your employer must pay at least the award rate, not the national minimum. The award also includes annual wage increases determined by the Fair Work Commission.

Superannuation Is Paid on Top

All minimum rates quoted are before tax and do not include superannuation. Employers must contribute 12% of ordinary time earnings to a complying super fund. For a Level 3 dental assistant working full-time, that adds about $132.74 per week to the total remuneration package.

Junior and Apprentice Rates

The award allows for junior rates (under 21) and apprentice rates. For example, a 17-year-old dental assistant at Level 3 would receive 60% of $29.11, or $17.47 per hour. Apprentices in the dental technician trade have their own percentage scales based on year of apprenticeship and school completion. These rates are lower than the adult minimum but are still legally enforceable.

What About Survey Averages?

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) does not publish a specific average salary for dental assistants. Industry surveys may report higher figures, but those often include allowances, overtime, or experience premiums. The award minimum is the floor; actual salaries can be higher through enterprise agreements or individual contracts. Always check your award classification first.

How to Find Your Correct Rate

To determine your exact minimum pay, identify your classification level using the award’s definitions. The Fair Work Ombudsman provides a Pay and Conditions Tool that can calculate your rate based on your role, experience, and qualifications. You can also refer to the award’s pay guide for a full list of rates and allowances.

For more guidance, see our Which minimum wage applies page to check if you are covered by the national system or a state award. Our Rate tables also summarise award and national minimum rates.

Common Misunderstandings

The national minimum wage does not apply if an award covers you. The award rate is the legal minimum for that classification.
Casual loading is not extra pay for weekends. The 25% casual loading compensates for lack of paid leave. Penalty rates for weekend or evening work are separate and also set by the award.
Super is not part of the hourly rate. It is an additional employer cost.

Summary

The dental assistant salary floor under the Health Services Award ranges from $29.11 to $31.67 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. This is well above the national minimum wage. Always confirm your classification and check for any enterprise agreement that may provide a higher rate. Remember that superannuation is paid on top, and junior or apprentice rates may apply for younger workers.

For the published floors, see the rate tables and how the figures work.