It means in some states in Australia, like NSW, hygienist's are unable to have their own practice. Although it is important we are able to recognise when there are abnormalities in the oral cavity, pathology in the oral mucosa, as well as when dental caries is present, as a Hygienist we are unable to diagnose dental caries ourselves or pathology. We can take radiographs and learn how to analyse them, but like I mentioned, we cannot diagnose decay. So basically, we work in the same clinic (separate surgeries) as a dentist or dental specialist who is their primary carer. I hope this answered your question.