From a five-member WhatsApp group to a growing professional body, the Indian Dentists Australia Association is combining professional development with healthcare outreach for disadvantaged communities
An association formed by five Indian-origin dentists in Australia has evolved into a professional and community service organisation, offering free dental treatment to disadvantaged people while promoting professional education and wider healthcare awareness.
The Indian Dentists Australia Association (IDAA), which began as an informal WhatsApp group in August 2021, organised its first community dental outreach programme over two days in August this year. Around 30 people facing financial and personal difficulties received free dental treatment from volunteer dentists.
The initiative was led by IDAA president Dr Jayashree Bhanushali, who has practised dentistry in Sydney’s Hills District for 25 years. She said the programme reflected her long-standing interest in making dental services accessible to people from vulnerable backgrounds.
The association was formally launched in November 2025 after its membership and activities expanded. Initially established to help Indian-origin dentists exchange clinical knowledge and professional advice, it now organises seminars, webinars and practical training programmes.
IDAA also raised 10,000 Australian dollars for the Australian Dental Association Foundation at its inaugural charity fundraising dinner in June 2026. Its annual Diwali celebration in October attracted more than 80 guests.
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Beyond dentistry, the association is encouraging conversations around mental health, school and social media bullying, dental anxiety among Indian women and organ donation
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Its commemorative publication, released during the Diwali celebrations, featured contributions addressing these issues
The organisation is also opening its membership and community initiatives to professionals and beneficiaries from different cultural backgrounds, rather than limiting its activities to the Indian-Australian community.
Among its future priorities are expanding free dental treatment programmes, strengthening professional education and developing partnerships to reach people in need. It is also considering wider wellbeing activities, including yoga.
The association’s growing community presence has received recognition from the Consul General of India in Sydney, Dr S Janakiraman, who invited its representatives to a gathering of community leaders at the Consulate.
From professional networking to healthcare outreach, IDAA’s development reflects the growing contribution of Indian-origin professionals to Australia’s wider community.
