Graduate Dentist
Program
Build an impactful dental career and make your first year in practice count.
Step into your first year as a dentist with structured mentoring, real patient experience, and a clear path to independent practice.
About the program
What you'll gain here?
- Structured 6- or 12-month pathway: build your skills step-by-step
- Competitive salary package and a sign-on bonus: start earning while still learning
- Ongoing mentorship: get guidance and support from experienced dentists
- CPD workshops and events: learn practical skills throughout the year
- Clinical and professional development webinars
- Case study project: you'll build confidence treating and presenting on real cases
- National clinical network: you'll be part of a connected, supportive dental community
Learning and Development
You’ll develop your skills through a mix of hands-on experience, mentoring, and structured learning. You'll learn how to:
- Plan and manage real patient cases
- Communicate treatment options with confidence
- Improve diagnostics and clinical decision-making
- Work effectively in a dental team
- Manage workload, wellbeing, and early career pressure
What your year may look like
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Month 1–2: Get started
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Month 3–6: Build confidence
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Month 7–12: Step into independence
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Who are we looking for
This program is for you if you:
- Are a final-year student or recent graduate (Class of 2026)
- Are eligible for AHPRA registration
- Want structured support in your first year
- Are motivated to grow into an independent clinician
- Value mentorship, teamwork, and continuous learning
Why this program?
Your first year in dentistry shouldn't feel overwhelming.
Starting out can feel like a big leap — from simulation labs to real patients. This program is designed to support you through that transition, helping you build confidence, capability, and independence at the right pace.
You won’t be left to figure it out alone.
Launched in 2023, our program has already supported dozens of early-career dentists to grow into independent clinicians across metro, regional and remote communities. We’ve seen firsthand how structure, mentorship and opportunity can shape the kind of dentist — and career — you want to become.
Read more about Dr Lucy Lockwood's experience on our Meet our People page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got a question about your application, our processes or what happens next? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about applying for the Dental and Oral Health Therapist Graduate Programs at Bupa
👉 To find out more, read our FAQ's sheet.
How to apply?
Simply register your interest through our Graduate Programs portal via the buttons.
Our Talent Team will guide you through the process — from your first conversation to your first day in practice.
Join us – be at the heart of dentistry’s future.
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