Tejal Somvanshi
Australia’s health regulator has taken the extraordinary step of issuing its first public warning about Perth dentist Peter Terzi, who is believed to be continuing to practice despite being suspended.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) issued the unprecedented alert on Monday about Terzi, who also uses the name Peter Taylor. He had his registrations as both a dentist and nurse suspended on February 26, 2025, but authorities believe he may still be treating patients.
“He remains under investigation and AHPRA believes he may be continuing to present himself as a registered dentist or nurse while he is suspended and unregistered,” the agency stated in its public notice.
AHPRA CEO Justin Untersteiner emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that such public warnings are only issued in “exceptional circumstances where the public needs to be informed from a safety perspective.” This marks the first time AHPRA has used powers granted two years ago to issue such a public statement.
Similar Posts
The warning comes as Terzi faces multiple criminal charges, including “knowingly and recklessly holding himself out as a registered dentist” and “carrying out a restricted dental act.” He has pleaded not guilty to these charges and was scheduled to appear in Perth Magistrates Court on Tuesday to set a trial date.
Former patients have expressed shock and anger. Port Hedland FIFO worker Ricky Nelson told media he was left with unfinished dental implants, thousands of dollars out of pocket, and “in constant pain every day.”
Anyone who suspects they’ve received treatment from Terzi since his suspension is urged to contact AHPRA’s Criminal Offences Unit at 07 3149 4771 or [email protected].
The case highlights the importance of checking that health practitioners are properly registered before receiving treatment. Patients can verify a practitioner’s registration status through AHPRA’s public register.
