Dental Benefits Act 2008

The following is a simplified outline of this Act:

• This Act sets up a framework for the provision of dental benefits.

• Dental benefit is payable if dental expenses are incurred in respect of a dental service rendered to an eligible dental patient.

• The amount of dental benefit payable is the amount specified in, or determined in accordance with, the Dental Benefits Rules.

• If dental benefit is payable, it is payable by the Chief Executive Medicare to the person who incurs the dental expenses in respect of the dental service. In some circumstances, dental benefit is payable to the dental provider.

• Claims for dental benefit must be lodged with the Chief Executive Medicare.

• The Chief Executive Medicare is to issue vouchers in relation to a dental service to persons who qualify for a voucher.

• A person qualifies for a voucher if the person meets the requirements of this Act or if the Dental Benefits Rules provide that the person qualifies for a voucher.

• A person in respect of whom a voucher is in effect is an eligible dental patient. The Dental Benefit Rules may also provide that certain eligible persons are eligible dental patients.

• The Minister may make Dental Benefit Rules which may provide for a Dental Benefits Schedule.

• This Act also makes provision in relation to the obtaining of documents relevant to ascertaining whether amounts should have been paid, the disclosure of information, offences against this Act and other matters.