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

Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety: Impact of COVID-19 on residential and home aged care - Submission 2020
Submission

Released June 2020 - Access to accredited practising dietitians (APDs) in the residential aged care system was decreased due to visitor restrictions during the pandemic. Our submission discusses implications of this and our recommendations for future including access to telehealth services.

Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety: Response to Counsel Assisting recommendations - Submission 2020
Submission

Released November 2020 - We consider it vital that the aged care system is changed to improve the availability of allied health services, including dietetic services and nutrition support. Dietitians Australia is supportive of many key recommendations given by the Counsel Assisting to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety.

Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability: Issues with the NDIS and Mainstream Services - Submission 2020
Submission

Released November 2020 - People living with disability need improved access to appropriate nutrition supports and Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) services. Our submission outlines some of the key issues and barriers.

Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety - Submission 2019
Submission

Released March 2019 - Our submission discusses the importance of nutrition in the care of older Australians. We have given 30 recommendations to the Government for nutrition care in the aged care system.

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.