What paediatric dietetics involves
A paediatric dietitian is a university-qualified health professional who assesses a child's nutrition and eating, then works with the family to set practical, achievable goals. For children, this is very different from adult dietetics — it needs to account for growth, development, sensory needs, and the realities of family mealtimes.
Dietitians often work alongside speech pathologists (who focus on the mechanics of chewing and swallowing) and occupational therapists (who help with sensory and feeding skills). Some children may see more than one of these professionals, which is why several Brisbane clinics offer feeding support as a team.
Common areas dietitians help with include:
- Fussy or 'picky' eating and very limited food ranges
- Faltering growth or being underweight
- Food allergies and intolerances
- Tube feeding and transitioning to oral eating
- Nutrition for conditions such as coeliac disease, reflux, diabetes and cystic fibrosis
- Nutrition support for autistic children and those with ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)
Signs your child might benefit from support
Every child goes through phases, but it may be worth seeking help if your child:
- Eats a very small number of foods (often fewer than 20) and refuses whole food groups
- Is not gaining weight or growing as expected
- Gags, vomits or is highly distressed at mealtimes
- Has a diagnosed condition needing a modified diet
- Relies on supplements or tube feeding
- Has strong sensory reactions to food textures, smells or appearance
If you're worried about your child's health or growth, speak with your GP or paediatrician first. This guide is general information only and is not medical advice.
Suitable ages
Paediatric dietitians support children from birth (including infant feeding and weaning) through to adolescence. The approach changes with age — early intervention for babies and toddlers looks quite different from working with a teenager managing a chronic condition. When enquiring, ask whether a clinic has experience with your child's age group and needs.
What a first appointment looks like
An initial consultation usually runs 45–60 minutes. The dietitian will take a detailed history — birth, growth, medical background, current eating patterns and family mealtime routines. They may ask you to keep a food and symptom diary beforehand, and will often measure weight and height to track growth.
From there, you'll agree on realistic goals together. Good paediatric dietetics is collaborative and gradual: the aim is small, sustainable changes rather than overnight transformation. Follow-up appointments are usually shorter and help adjust the plan as your child progresses.
Typical costs and NDIS funding
As a general guide, an initial dietetics consultation in Australia often ranges from around $150 to $250, with follow-ups roughly $80 to $160. Prices vary between clinics and change over time, so always confirm current fees directly with the provider.
Under the NDIS, there are published price caps for allied health services, and dietetics is generally funded through the Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living budget. If your child is an NDIS participant and dietetics relates to their disability-related needs, this may be claimable. Note that NDIS price limits apply and providers should not charge above them for NDIS-funded work.
Outside the NDIS, some families access a Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) plan through their GP, which can provide a limited number of subsidised allied health visits per year. Private health insurance with 'extras' cover may also offer partial rebates. Check what you're entitled to before booking.
How to choose a provider in Brisbane
When comparing clinics, look for:
- Credentials. Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are credentialled through Dietitians Australia. If feeding therapy involves a speech pathologist, check they're a member of Speech Pathology Australia; occupational therapists should be registered with AHPRA. Ask about qualifications directly.
- NDIS registration. Confirm whether the provider is NDIS-registered, and note that self-managed and plan-managed participants can also use non-registered providers. Ask how they handle NDIS claiming.
- Waitlists. Waitlists for paediatric therapy in Brisbane can be long. Ask how soon you can get an initial appointment and whether there's a waitlist for ongoing sessions.
- Telehealth. Many dietitians offer telehealth, which can be handy for follow-ups or for families further from the clinic. Ask whether this suits your child's needs.
- Feeding experience. Not every dietitian specialises in children or feeding difficulties. Ask specifically about their experience with your child's situation.
Questions to ask before booking
- Are you an Accredited Practising Dietitian, and do you have paediatric feeding experience?
- Do you work alongside speech pathologists or OTs if my child needs it?
- What are your fees, and are they within NDIS price limits?
- Can I claim through NDIS, Medicare CDM or private health?
- What's your current waitlist, and do you offer telehealth?
- What should I prepare or bring to the first appointment?
Taking the time to ask these questions helps you find the right fit for your child and family — and a good working relationship with your dietitian makes a real difference over the long term.