People in Rosebud who need help with healthy eating and nutrition can use the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). Dietitian and nutrition supports are part of the NDIS portfolio and can be funded to help participants manage conditions that affect diet and food choices. This guide explains what the support is, who can access it, what is covered, how funding works and how to get started.
What Dietitian and Nutrition Supports Are and Who They Help
Dietitian and nutrition supports give participants access to a qualified professional who can assess eating habits, plan meals, and offer advice on supplements or specialised diets. The support is useful for people with chronic conditions, mobility issues, or cognitive challenges that make it hard to manage food. It is also helpful for those who need to maintain weight, improve nutrient intake, or follow a medical diet.
Eligibility and Access Rules
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for dietitian and nutrition supports, a participant must have a disability that affects their ability to manage nutrition. The disability must be long‑term or permanent and have a significant impact on daily living. The NDIS will consider medical evidence and functional reports when deciding eligibility.
How to Access the Supports
Dietitian support is part of the core or capacity building categories of the NDIS plan. A participant must have a plan that includes the support, and the plan must show that the support is reasonable and necessary for achieving the participant’s goals.
What Is Included and What Is Not Included
Included Services
- Initial assessment and ongoing reviews by a registered dietitian.
- Meal planning and dietary advice tailored to the participant’s condition.
- Education on food labels, portion sizes and meal timing.
- Support for special diets such as gluten‑free, low‑sodium or diabetic plans.
- Advice on supplements if prescribed by a medical professional.
Excluded Services
Services that are not covered include:
- Cooking or meal preparation.
- Purchasing groceries or food delivery.
- Commercially available meal kits.
- General wellness coaching that is not linked to a medical condition.
Funding and Planning Considerations
Funding Limits and Price Arrangements
The latest NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits set the maximum amount that can be claimed for each session of dietitian support. The price limit is expressed in hours and is updated annually. Participants can claim up to the limit for each session, but the total funding must not exceed the amount allocated in the plan.
Planning Your Nutrition Supports
When creating a plan, participants should discuss their dietary goals with their planner or support coordinator. The plan should state the number of sessions, the purpose of each session, and how the support will help the participant reach broader outcomes such as increased independence or reduced hospital visits.
How to Request and Activate the Support
Step 1: Check Your Plan
Look at the current NDIS plan to confirm that dietitian support is listed. If it is not, you must request an amendment.
Step 2: Find a Registered Dietitian
Search the NDIS provider directory or local health services. In Rosebud, many dietitians are part of community health centres. You can also ask your general practitioner for a referral.
Step 3: Submit a Request
Use the NDIS portal or your planner to submit a request for the support. Include the provider’s details, the proposed frequency of sessions and the expected outcomes.
Step 4: Confirm and Start Service
Once the request is approved, the provider will contact you to arrange the first appointment. Keep a record of all sessions and receipts to use when claiming funding.
Local Context: Rosebud, Belgravia, Chelsea, Pimlico
Local Providers in Rosebud
Rosebud has several community health centres that offer dietitian services. Participants can choose a provider that offers face‑to‑face appointments or telehealth, depending on their mobility.
Access in Nearby Areas
If you live in Belgravia, Chelsea or Pimlico, you can still access the same services. Many providers cover these suburbs and can arrange home visits if required. The distance to the provider does not affect eligibility, but it may influence the number of sessions you can attend.
FAQs
- What types of conditions can be treated with dietitian support? Conditions such as diabetes, food allergies, gastrointestinal disorders, and chronic pain that affect eating habits can be addressed.
- Can I combine dietitian support with other NDIS services? Yes, you can add dietitian support to your plan alongside personal care, community participation or therapy services.
- Is there a limit to the number of sessions I can claim? The limit is set by the latest Pricing Arrangements and is expressed in hours per year.
- Do I need a medical prescription to receive dietitian support? Not always, but a medical report that explains the need for specialised nutrition advice strengthens the claim.
- How do I track my progress? The dietitian will provide a progress report after each session. Keep these reports for your planner or support coordinator.
Disclaimer
This article is general information only. Check your plan and speak with your planner or support coordinator.