As Australia's peak body for dietitians, we represent our members and our profession. We raise awareness about the importance of nutrition in public health. Our advocacy and policy work helps us support Australia's healthcare needs.

We advocate for the role of Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs). APDs treat a range of health conditions and give expert advice on nutrition and dietary issues. They help Australians stay healthy and well.

Nutritional health is a key public health issue. We work with all levels of government, government agencies and other peak bodies to influence health policy. Our expert advice can help improve the health of all Australians.

Our latest policy and advocacy work

We promote better community healthcare by advocating for key areas of nutritional health.

Right now, our advocacy priority areas are aged care, disability, healthy and sustainable diets, and mental health.

For policy and advocacy questions contact us at policy@dietitiansaustralia.org.au

The Social and Economic Benefits of Improving Mental Health: response to the Productivity Commission’s Mental Health Issues Paper - Submission 2019
Submission

Released April 2019 - Access to healthy food and nutrition care are significant factors in the management of mental health and physical health for people with mental health disorders. Read our submission on the importance of nutrition care, and the role of an APD for mental health.

Eating disorders and the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) Review - Submission 2018
Submission

Released October 2018 - Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) play an important role in the care of people with eating disorders. Read our submission advocating for increased access to APDs through the MBS, to meet the complex needs of people with eating disorders.

Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety: Propositions relating to allied health services - Submission 2020
Submission

Released March 2020 - We consider it vital that the aged care system is changed to improve the availability of allied health services, including access to Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs). Read our submission for recommendations on improving access to allied health services.

Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability: Group Homes - Submission 2020
Submission

Released March 2020 - Nutrition and food must not be overlooked in the care people with disability in group homes. Read our submission for our recommendations to the Royal Commission.

Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety: Aged Care Program Redesign - Submission 2020
Submission

Released January 2020 - We welcomed the opportunity to provide our feedback on the redesign of the aged care system for our nation's future. Our submission includes recommendations for improving older people's access to dietetic and nutrition services.