Position overview

• Employment Type: Full time (76 hours per fortnight), Fixed term 12 month position
• Location: Warrnambool Campus
• Classification: Dental Assistant Trainee

This is an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Identified Position. In accordance with Section 12 - Special Measures of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic), this employment opportunity is open only to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicants.

We strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are interested in starting a rewarding career in healthcare to apply.

About the role

South West Healthcare (SWH) is seeking applications from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people for upcoming Dental Assistant Traineeships, commencing in late 2026 at our Warrnambool Dental Clinic.

This traineeship offers a supported pathway into a rewarding career in oral health. If you're motivated to learn, enjoy working with people, and have good communication, computer and literacy skills, we'd love to hear from you.

Successful applicants will complete a 12-month paid traineeship, combining on-the-job training with study through a registered training organisation. You'll be supported by our experienced team of Dentists, Oral Health Therapists and Dental Assistants throughout your learning journey.

As a Dental Assistant Trainee, you'll provide chairside support during dental procedures, assist with patient care, prepare equipment and treatment areas, and help with reception and administrative tasks.

Why Join Us?

• Join a supportive, culturally safe and inclusive team.
• Complete a paid traineeship while gaining a nationally recognised qualification.
• Receive ongoing support, supervision and mentoring throughout your training.
• Access professional development and future career opportunities within South West Healthcare.
• Enjoy flexible work arrangements and excellent employee benefits.

About You

We're looking for someone who:

• Identifies as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
• Is enthusiastic, reliable and motivated to learn.
• Enjoys working with people and providing excellent customer service.
• Has good communication, computer and literacy skills.
• Works well both independently and as part of a team.
• Takes pride in their work and has a positive attitude.

Who we are

As an organisation SWH prides themselves on their values; Care, Respect, Excellence, Integrity and Leadership and their overall dedication to the local community. Learn more about SWH here.

SWH is the largest health service in South West Victoria, providing acute, mental health, rehabilitation, and aged care together with an extensive range of primary and community health services across the South West catchment. SWH is the lead agency for the South West Local Health Service Network, presenting an exciting opportunity for SWH to provide strong leadership and support across the entire region. With a population of 39,000 and a catchment of 100,000 Warrnambool is the regional centre to Victoria's Great South Coast.

To learn about the vibrant town and region please visit: http://www.warrnambool.com/

How to apply

Submit your application by selecting the Apply button below and include a cover letter and resume by Friday 28 August 2026. Please ensure you address the selection criteria as outlined in the position description.

Employment Terms and Conditions will be in line with the Health and Allied Services, Managers and Administrative Workers (Victorian Public Sector) (Single Interest Employers) Enterprise Agreement 2021-2025.

The successful applicant will be required to be eligible for and undergo the following:

• Police Record Check
• Employee Working with Children's Check, where required
• Current Immunisation status
• As this is an identified position under Section 12 of the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic), applicants will be required to provide a completed Confirmation of Aboriginality form, or a previously completed equivalent, during the recruitment process.

South West Healthcare is an Equal Opportunities employer and commits to Inclusion, Diversity & Equity by providing a trusting workplace that is safe, respectful and inclusive of all individuals, and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate. We strongly encourage applications from people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, culturally diverse backgrounds, disability, all genders, and LGBTQI+ community. We are committed to The Child Safe Standards, which aim to protect children and young people.

Note: If you experience any difficulties using this website or require assistance at any stage of the recruitment process, please email: humanresources@swh.net.au