Speech pathology

How can speech pathology help?

Speech pathology helps children and adults who have trouble with speech, language, swallowing and communication difficulties. It gives you practical support to manage everyday challenges and build skills so you can communicate with more confidence at home, school, work and in the community.

Our speech pathologists work with you and your family to understand your needs and build skills for daily life. We can help with:

• Speech sounds
• Using words and making sentences
• Understanding language
• Difficulty swallowing food and drinks safely
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) including high tech speech generating devices
• Reading
• Writing
• Social skills
• Stuttering and using voice
• Children who are fussy eaters

Who is speech pathology for?

Speech pathology is for children, young people and adults who need help with talking, understanding, reading, writing, social communication, voice or swallowing. We support people with a wide range of needs, including developmental delay, disability, stroke, brain injury, dementia, cerebral palsy, hearing loss and other conditions that affect communication and safe eating and drinking.

Where are speech pathology services available?

We provide speech pathology services in many towns across Central, Southern, and Western NSW, as well as North East Victoria. Get in touch to check if this service is available in your area.

How do I fund speech pathology services?

Speech pathology services are available through:

• NDIS funding (Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living)
• Self-funded appointments (fee-for-service)
• Medicare rebate plus self-funded

GP Referral is only needed if accessing Medicare rebates. We will work with you to find the right appointment and support for your needs.

The Western NSW Speech Pathology Program for preschool aged children

Some children with language difficulties may find it hard to make friends, manage their emotions or adapt to new situations. Without early support, these challenges can impact their learning, wellbeing and future opportunities.

Early intervention is key. Supporting children while their brains are still developing can help lessen the long-term effects of speech and language challenges.

Our Western NSW Speech Pathology program offers up to 10 free sessions each year to help children develop their communication skills and reach their potential. Our speech pathologists work with children and their families at their usual preschool, daycare centre, community centre or school.

This service is supported by funding from the Western NSW PHN as part of the Australian Government’s PHN program.

Outreach services to rural areas

We offer outreach services in rural areas so more people can get care closer to home.

Talk to us about outreach services, including speech pathology, occupational therapy, positive behaviour support, counselling and psychology.

Ready to get started? Complete the referral form or give us a call on 1300 402 585.

Careers in speech pathology

We are helping grow a strong allied health workforce in regional communities. If you or someone you know is interested in a career in speech pathology, learn more about our Graduate Program and student placement opportunities.