The Federal member for Macarthur, Dr Mike Freelander spoke in Parliament yesterday about the unaffordability of dental care and the proposed cut of the Child Dental Benefit Scheme.

Dr Freelander said:

“It is distressing to me to have to look into a child's mouth and be able to judge their parents' income.”

“For those who think we are doing okay, here are some facts to change your mind.”

“One in five people who needed to see a dental professional in the last 12 months decided not to do so because of cost.”

“Six out of 10 children have tooth decay by 15 years of age. People living in regional and remote areas are far more likely to avoid seeking dental treatment because of cost.”

“The Minister for Health and Aged Care announced that she would abandon the National Partnership Agreement on Adult Public Dental Services and the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.”

“We are already struggling to cope with several generations of the dental disabled. This government appears not to understand the importance of dental care to those most disadvantaged.”

“This is the 21st century and I believe this government has a very distorted priority if it cannot see the importance of providing adequate dental care.”