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

Select Committee Inquiry into Mental Health and Suicide Prevention - Submission 2021
Submission

Released March 2021 - Dietitians Australia advocates for the health and wellbeing of all Australians, including those with mental illness. Dietitians Australia supports reforms to the mental health system. All Australians should have access to physical and mental health care. This includes access to healthy food and nutrition care as a priority.

SA Rural Allied Health Workforce plan - Submission 2021
Submission

Released April 2021 - The rural South Australian allied health workforce requires reform. We need to better meet the needs of individual practitioners and provide optimal care to the community. A better understanding of the individual needs of clinicians and the community is required. Steps to improve training and opportunities within the sector should be a priority.

Independent Assessment, National Disability Insurance Scheme - Submission 2021
Submission

Released March 2021 - The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) requires reform to improve the health and wellbeing of Australians with a disability. APDs should help assess entry and access to the scheme. They should also provide health and nutrition care within the NDIS, as part of a commitment to integrated healthcare.

Priorities for the 2021-22 Federal Budget - Submission 2021
Submission

Released January 2021 - The Federal Budget should allocate funds dedicated to improving and protecting the nutritional health and wellbeing of Australians, acknowledging the importance of Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) in this area.

Aged Care and Disability Training Package review - Submission 2021
Submission

Released March 2021 - Additional learning, in the form of a new educational unit for all workers within the aged care and disability sectors, should be introduced to give employees a more contemporary, informed view on ageing. A standardised unit across both sectors would be ideal, due to regular crossover of employees between the two areas of work.