Factors influencing recent dental graduates' location and sector of employment in Victoria

Abstract

Background: Recruitment and retention of dentists in the public sector and rural areas in Victoria has become increasingly difficult in recent years. There are little available data on the factors that influence the sector and location of practice of new dental graduates. The objective of this study was to investigate the factors considered by new graduates in determining the location and sector of employment after graduation, and influencing any early changes in career path. Methods: Questionnaires were sent to dentists who graduated from The University of Melbourne from 2000-2003 who were currently practising in Victoria. There were 154 subjects to whom questionnaires were sent and 109 use..