ABORIGINAL Victorians of all ages now have access to improved oral health services, specifically the culturally appropriate application of fluoride varnish.
State Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas said Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners can now apply fluoride varnish to people of all ages in their communities, having previously been restricted to children aged between three and 17 years old.
With Aboriginal children statistically more likely to have oral health issues than non-Aboriginal children, the fluoride varnish, which is applied to the surface of the teeth can help to slow, stop, and prevent tooth decay.
In September 2023, the State Government announced $650,000 worth of grants to fund training for participating Aboriginal community controlled health organisation staff on how to administer fluoride varnish.
Ms Thomas said both measures were a good step forward for First Nations health.
“We know community-led responses work and can save lives,” she said.
“This change will help remove barriers that can limit good oral health for many Aboriginal adults and help boost overall health outcomes.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners make a huge contribution to the Victorian health system and the communities they serve.
“We’re proud to be supporting their work.”
