From Staff Shortages to Sick Leave: Practical HR Actions Every Dental Practice Should Take Now

Recently, our CEO Michelle Gianferrari caught up with HR expert Kim Aafjes to discuss the current state of HR in dental practices - and what practice owners and managers need to focus on right now to reduce risk, support their teams, and stay compliant.

Rather than theory, the session focused on practical actions dental practices can implement immediately.

Here are the key takeaways to put into action straight away:

✅ Review and update position descriptions and employment contracts, ensuring they are current and include a clear 6-month probation period.

✅ Check your HR policies to ensure they clearly address expected behaviour, bullying, harassment, discrimination, grievances, and disciplinary processes.

✅ Reinforce your leave policy, including clear expectations around how and when employees must notify the practice of sick leave.

✅ Track hours accurately using a reliable timesheet system to ensure employees are always paid correctly and to reduce underpayment risk.

✅ Review remuneration annually - particularly in June (ahead of award increases) and on employee anniversaries.

✅ Document all employee meetings and conversations, particularly those relating to performance, conduct, or leave, to support compliance and good people management.

✅ Register with Fair Work and your relevant state agency to stay informed of ongoing employment law changes.

✅ Train your team to identify, prevent, and respond appropriately to sexual harassment and workplace bullying - a critical step for both compliance and staff wellbeing.

HR compliance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right foundations in place, practices can create clarity, reduce risk, and build stronger, more engaged teams.

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To learn more, watch Michelle and Kim’s on-demand live conversation here.

If you’d like support reviewing your HR foundations or navigating a tricky people matter, the Prime Practice team is here to help. Learn more about our HR Solutions here.

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