Speech pathologists help children build the skills they need to communicate, understand language and eat safely. This guide explains what paediatric speech therapy involves, how NDIS funding works, and how to choose a provider in Launceston — including the practices featured on this page.
Multidisciplinary paediatric provider in Launceston offering speech pathology, OT, physiotherapy, psychology, dietetics, early intervention, art/music therapy and allied health assistants for ages 0-16, plus adult services. Offers in-clinic, off-site and state-wide telehealth appointments across Tasmania.
Emerge Allied Health is a Tasmanian, family-focused multidisciplinary practice for children and young people, offering Psychology, Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and early childhood intervention services, aiming to provide holistic, evidence-based supports under one roof.
Step by Step Speech Pathology provides individualized speech pathology services for children, tailored to each child's age, needs, and family goals.
Private speech pathology practice in Launceston, TAS, seeing preschool and school-aged children for assessment and therapy. Sessions held Mondays, Tuesdays during school hours, and every second Saturday. Not currently accepting new referrals; waiting list closed.
Solo speech pathology practice in Launceston, TAS, offering assessment and therapy for children aged 0-12 with speech and language delays or disorders. Practitioner is a Certified Practicing member of Speech Pathology Australia, currently on maternity leave, returning late 2025.
Registered NDIS provider in Launceston offering Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Speech Pathology, Exercise Physiology, Positive Behaviour Support and Dietetics. Telehealth available. Functional assessments, therapy plans and reports provided; appointment availability varies by service.
Launceston-based provider offering speech pathology assessment and intervention including orofacial myology, written language, numeracy, and feeding support, plus professional mentoring and parent/school workshops. No specific ages, NDIS status, telehealth, or waitlist details mentioned.
Speech pathologists (sometimes called speech therapists) work with much more than just talking clearly. For children, their work can include:
Therapy is usually play-based for younger children and tailored to each child's goals, strengths and interests.
Every child develops at their own pace, but it can be worth speaking to a professional if your child:
If you have concerns, it's fine to seek advice early — you don't need to "wait and see." A speech pathologist can reassure you or start support sooner if it's needed. This guide is general information only and isn't a substitute for individual professional advice.
Speech pathologists support children right across childhood — from babies with early feeding difficulties, to toddlers and preschoolers building first words, through to school-aged children working on sounds, language, literacy and social skills. Early support can make a real difference, but it's never too late to start.
The first visit is usually an assessment and a chance for you both to get to know each other. Typically it involves:
Bring along any relevant reports, a list of your questions, and be ready to share what you notice at home. You know your child best, and that information is valuable.
As a general guide, speech pathology sessions in Australia often range from around $180 to $220+ per hour. The NDIS publishes price limits (caps) for therapy supports, and many providers set their fees with reference to these. Costs can vary with session length, travel, report writing and assessments, so always ask for a clear breakdown before you start. These figures are indicative only and change over time.
If your child has an NDIS plan, speech pathology usually sits under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living. This funding can cover assessments, therapy sessions and reports. How you access it depends on how your plan is managed:
Check how your plan is managed before booking, so you know which providers you can use.
This page features several Launceston-area practices, including Early Start Australia – Tasmania North, Emerge Allied Health, Step By Step Speech Pathology, Sarah Just Speech Pathology, Rachael Zeeman Speech Pathology, Optimum Health Solutions – Launceston and Start Smart Tasmania. When comparing options, consider:
Taking the time to ask these questions helps you find a provider who's the right fit for your child and your family.
Or read the full speech pathology guide, or browse all Launceston providers.
No, you can usually contact a speech pathologist directly without a GP referral. However, a referral may be needed for certain funding options, such as Medicare care plans, so it's worth checking with the provider and your GP.
If your child has an NDIS plan, speech pathology is generally funded under Capacity Building — Improved Daily Living. How you access it depends on whether your plan is self-managed, plan-managed or NDIA-managed. Confirm your plan details before booking.
As a general guide, sessions in Australia often range from around $180 to $220+ per hour. The NDIS sets price caps that many providers refer to. Costs vary, so ask each Launceston provider for a clear fee breakdown before starting.
Waitlists vary between practices and can change with demand. Some providers may see you within a few weeks, while others have longer waits. Always ask about current waitlists for both assessment and ongoing therapy when you enquire.
Yes, many speech pathologists offer telehealth sessions by video, which can suit families who are busy or live outside central Launceston. Ask each provider whether telehealth is available and whether it's appropriate for your child's needs.