As it marks a 25-year partnership with the Oral Health Centre of Western Australia (OHCWA), the UWA Dental School continues to demonstrate the impressive practical impact a university can have when education, service, and research come together to align with community need.

Established to integrate clinical training with public health delivery, this partnership has grown into one of Western Australia’s most effective models of university–health collaboration. The dedication and results of this collaboration are outstanding. Every year, more than 50,000 dental visits are provided through OHCWA, giving students real clinical experience while improving access to essential oral health care for people who might otherwise go without treatment.

The reach of this partnership extends well beyond Perth. Through rural and remote placements and community-based programs, students and staff deliver preventive and restorative care across the state helping to close the oral health gap while developing the next generation of competent, socially responsible clinicians.

The Central Great Southern Early Years Partnership Dental Health Project, recently recognised as a finalist in the WA Health Excellence Awards, illustrates this dedication and commitment to practical, community-led health improvement.

Research remains a central pillar of this work. UWA’s Rising Stars researchers are leading innovative projects in digital and AI-assisted dentistry, preventive care, and child oral health. These remarkable advances in knowledge directly benefit patients and inform clinical teaching.

Together, the UWA Dental School and OHCWA continue to build capability, evidence, and access, strengthening oral health outcomes for Western Australians through a partnership that delivers measurable results.