Membership FAQ

How do I become a member of the ASO?

To become a member of the ASO, please click 'Join Now' in the top right-hand corner of the home page. You will be prompted to create an account. Once you have created your account, please enter your details and upload your supporting documents. Please ensure to upload all the documents required as listed in the beginning of the application process. We look forward to welcoming you as an ASO member!

How long does the membership process take from application?

The membership process takes approx. 6 weeks. All membership applications must be approved by both the state branch (which is the state where your primary practice is located) and the Membership Committee.

How much does ASO membership cost?

The ASO membership year runs over the calendar year and fees are made up of Federal and State subs as well as Levies. The cost varies by State and by category. See our membership categories page for more information on ASO Membership components for 2024 or email [email protected] for your state’s fees.

What qualifications do I need?

For full membership of the ASO, you will need to provide certified copies of the following documents:

• Primary General Dental Degree OR Australian Dental Council Certificate
• Higher Post-Graduate Degree qualifying you as a Specialist Orthodontist
• Current AHPRA Registration Certificate reflecting your Australian specialist orthodontic registration
• Proof of current membership of the Australian Dental Association (ADA)
• Proof of permanent residency in Australia, e.g. Copy of Australian or New Zealand passport, Australian Citizenship certificate, Permanent Residency Visa

What documentation is required if my Orthodontic training was conducted overseas?

The ASO will require the following documents:

• Certificate of Good Standing from the foreign registration authority or board where you have been registered as a Dentist or Orthodontist.
• Official certified course outline from the educational institution at which your orthodontic postgraduate program was undertaken. The outline should include course structure and subjects, hours per component, and assessment procedures with examiners’ names.
• Officially certified log of the number, range and types of cases treated by you during your training.

Who needs to sign my application?

Membership application forms for the ASO need to be signed by you, your Proposer, and your Seconder. Your Proposer and Seconder must be ASO Full Members who are also in the same state branch as your primary practice.

If you are applying for academic membership you will also need a signature on your application form from the Head of Department.

Can I join the ASO if I am a post-graduate orthodontic student?

Yes. You may apply to be a Student Member of the ASO if you are enrolled in full-time study of an orthodontic course. This includes being enrolled in full time study outside of Australia, if you can produce a certificate of good standing from the Dental Board of Australia.

For more information, please reach out to the ASO office by phone at (02) 9965 7250 or via email at [email protected].

Join the ASO

Join the peak specialist body for orthodontists and orthodontic knowledge across Australia.