Media Releases
Urgent focus needed to reduce the impact of poor nutrition
Australia’s poor nutrition report card demands a coordinated response in the form of a National Nutrition Policy; this is one of the key areas highlighted in Dietitians Australia’s recent response to the development of the National Preventive Health Strategy. Media release
October 2020
Feeding good mental health is key for young Australians
As we count down to World Mental Health Day tomorrow, and with final exams for Year 12 students just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to consider the connection between healthy food choices and the mental wellbeing of young Australians. Media release
October 2020
It’s time to tackle malnutrition
Identifying and treating malnutrition is the focus of the latest virtual issue by the Journal of Dietitians Australia, Nutrition & Dietetics. Released this week, the issue of freely available papers includes 14 recently published research articles that raise awareness about the need to proactively screen, diagnose and treat malnutrition, particularly as our population ages. Media release
October 2020
Do not forget food: the essential ingredient in health and wellbeing of older Australians
The importance of providing nutritious food and satisfying mealtimes in the wellbeing of older Australians must be recognised if the recommendations from the Royal Commission’s report into the impact of COVID-19 on aged care are to improve quality of life for residents. Media release
October 2020
Telehealth extension good news for Australians accessing dietetic services
Dietitians Australia welcomes the announcement by the Federal Government to extend telehealth appointments for allied health practitioners until 31 March 2021. Media statement
September 2020
Continuing telehealth is essential to keep Australians connected to healthcare
During this time of prolonged uncertainty triggered by the global pandemic, telehealth is the lifeline keeping Australians connected to their dietitian. But without government action, this support will soon be cut short, with current telehealth arrangements due to expire at the end of the month. Media release
September 2020
Digesting rest: meal quality and timing linked with better sleep in female AFL players
Limiting food intake before bedtime could be the answer to achieving a good night’s sleep for elite female athletes, according to new research published today in Nutrition & Dietetics. The research conducted by Dr. Dominique Condo, Lecturer in Sports Nutrition at Deakin University, APD and AccSD, highlights the impact nutrient intake, quality and timing of meals has on sleep duration and quality in Australian Football League Women’s (AFLW) players. Media release
August 2020
Virtual Reality: Interning at the World Health Organization during a pandemic
As coronavirus was declared a pandemic, media, organisations and the public looked to the World Health Organization (WHO) for information. Joyce Haddad, Accredited Practising Dietitian, had just commenced an internship at WHO Headquarters in Switzerland, and was there to see it all unfold. Speaking today at Dietitians Australia’s Virtual Plenary Program she shares her experience as an intern and her top 4 tips for living well during quarantine. Media release
August 2020
Urgent action needed to stop malnutrition being COVID-19’s lasting legacy
As aged care homes across the country continue lockdown precautions in a bid to keep COVID-19 at bay, the sad reality is that another crisis – malnutrition – is building for many older Australians. Dietitians Australia calls for an increased focus on nutrition care during these times. This includes having a dietitian engaged at all aged care homes and swiftly implementing innovative health care measures. Media release
August 2020
Weight of evidence supports continuation of telehealth
The coronavirus pandemic has vastly changed Australian lifestyles, leading to unwanted ‘COVID kilos’ for some, due to different food choices, eating habits, stress and a lack of exercise during lockdown. But Dietitians Australia said it’s also presented an opportunity for many people to make life-changing and in some cases, life-saving choices, through better access to dietetic support via telehealth. Media release
July 2020
Medicare co-payments for telehealth services – a vital requirement for allied health
The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) commends the government for allowing co-payments for telehealth allied health services. Coming into effect yesterday, this announcement ensures community based Accredited Practising Dietitians, along with other allied health providers, can continue to provide vital health services to Australians. Media release
April 2020
Dietitians are now available for consultations via video conference and phone appointments (Medicare and DVA rebates available)
The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) commends the government’s decision to expand telehealth Medicare and Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) services for allied health, including dietitians, in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Media release
April 2020
Dietitians call for sensible shopping at the supermarket
The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) calls for the Australian public to act sensibly and to exercise restraint when it comes to the bulk purchasing of foods at supermarkets. Australians are encouraged to consider the role of their diet in health, and sensibly plan ahead to be prepared during these uncertain times. Media release
March 2020
Critical need for a national residential aged care malnutrition audit
Malnutrition is a serious issue within aged care in Australia, silently abusing a substantial number of older Australians. Despite this, the true extent of this issue is unknown due to a lack in national data on the prevalence of malnutrition in aged care. The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) calls for a national audit into malnutrition in residential aged care. Media release
February 2020
National Nutrition Policy required to nourish not neglect Australians
The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) highlights the need for nutrition to be prioritised for health, to support Australians to lead healthier lives. Commencing today, Smart Eating Week (10 – 16 February) continues DA’s call for a new National Nutrition Policy. Media release