Best Paediatric Dietetics in Ballarat

What paediatric dietetics involves

Paediatric dietetics is the practice of supporting children's nutrition, growth and eating patterns. An accredited practising dietitian (APD) works with families to make sure a child is getting the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. This can range from gentle support for fussy or 'selective' eaters through to managing complex medical needs such as food allergies, coeliac disease, reflux, faltering growth, tube feeding, or conditions linked to autism, ADHD or genetic differences.

Unlike general nutrition advice you might find online, a paediatric dietitian tailors a plan to your individual child — their age, medical history, sensory needs, family routines and food preferences. The goal is usually to build a positive, low-pressure relationship with food rather than to force eating.

Signs your child might benefit from support

Every child goes through phases, and being a bit fussy is normal. It may be worth speaking to a dietitian if your child:

• Eats a very limited range of foods (for example, fewer than 20 foods) or is dropping foods over time
• Gags, chokes or shows distress at mealtimes
• Has poor weight gain, weight loss, or is falling off their growth curve
• Has a diagnosed medical condition affecting eating or digestion
• Relies heavily on supplement drinks or tube feeding
• Has significant sensory aversions to textures, smells or food groups
• Shows signs of nutrient deficiencies (such as low energy or ongoing constipation)

If you're worried about a medical issue, always see your GP or paediatrician first — a dietitian works alongside your medical team, not instead of it.

Suitable ages

Paediatric dietitians support children from infancy (including around introducing solids and weaning) right through to the teenage years. Feeding therapy for younger children often focuses on play-based, family-centred approaches, while older children and teens may be more involved in planning their own goals.

What a first appointment looks like

A first appointment usually runs 45–60 minutes. The dietitian will ask about your child's medical history, growth, current eating patterns, mealtime routines and any concerns. They may review a food diary if you've kept one, and check growth measurements. From there, they'll suggest a practical plan with small, achievable steps — this might include mealtime strategies, ways to expand the range of accepted foods, or specific dietary changes for a medical need. Many dietitians work closely with speech pathologists and occupational therapists, particularly where feeding involves oral-motor or sensory factors.

Typical costs and NDIS funding

As a general guide, dietetics sessions in Australia commonly range from around $150 to $250 per hour, depending on the provider and appointment length. The NDIS publishes price caps that registered providers must follow, and these can change each year, so always confirm current fees directly with the provider. Prices vary, so this is a general range only rather than a quote.

Under the NDIS, dietetics is generally funded through the Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living budget. This funding covers assessments and therapy that build a child's independence and functional skills. If your child is not on the NDIS, you may be able to access some Medicare-subsidised sessions through a GP Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan, or use private health extras cover. Ask about all options when you enquire.

How to choose a provider in Ballarat

This page features providers including Selective Support NDIS Provider Ballarat, Modern Medicine (with clinics in Alfredton and Bakery Hill), Body Confident Nutrition, National 360 Ballarat and Nutrition Health & Wellbeing. Ratings and review numbers vary, and a low number of reviews doesn't necessarily reflect quality — it's worth contacting a few and seeing who feels like the right fit.

When comparing providers, check:

• NDIS registration — confirm whether the provider is NDIS-registered, particularly if your child's plan is NDIA-managed. Self-managed and plan-managed families can also use non-registered providers.
• Credentials — look for an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) through Dietitians Australia. Where feeding therapy overlaps with speech or OT, check for Speech Pathology Australia or Occupational Therapy Australia membership and AHPRA registration for relevant professionals.
• Paediatric experience — ask specifically about their experience with children and your child's particular needs.
• Waitlists — these can be long, so ask how soon you can be seen and whether there's a cancellation list.
• Telehealth — many dietitians offer video appointments, which can be handy for busy families or those outside central Ballarat.

Questions to ask before you book

• Are you an Accredited Practising Dietitian, and how much experience do you have with children?
• Are you NDIS-registered, and can you work with my child's plan management type?
• What's your current waitlist, and do you offer telehealth?
• How do you approach fussy eating versus medical dietary needs?
• Do you work with other therapists (speech, OT, paediatrician)?
• What are your fees, and how do they compare to the current NDIS price cap?

Taking a little time to ask these questions upfront helps you find a dietitian your child feels comfortable with — which makes a real difference to how well therapy works.