How an allied health assistance course can inspire healthy living

Returning to education after raising her family, Holmesglen graduate Danielle (pictured right) says an allied health assistance course gave her important nutrition knowledge which she uses in both her professional and personal life.

“I gained a good knowledge of diets – what a daily diet should look like and how they prevent diseases,” she explains.

Fellow graduate Arti Sapra (left) came to Australia from India in 2019, having previously completed an MBA. She says returning to study after 14 years was rewarding.

“The course had good collaboration and the teachers inspired you with every class. It opened your confidence levels," says Arti.

“Even if for no one else, you should do this course for your own health."

The HLT43021 Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetic Support), which is free for eligible students, covers nutrition training, including:

• Nutrition advice and dietary counseling techniques

• Healthy body systems and their functions

• Meal planning and menu development

• Applying medical terminology to support client needs

It is delivered with a combination of theory and practical classes, backed up by 120 hours of compulsory placement.

With only one in 13 adults eating enough fruit and vegetables, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the need for qualified allied health assistant professionals is becoming clearer. 

“I’ve always had a natural interest in healthy food and how it can help the body. I want people to know how good healthy foods can taste, as I don’t think everyone is fully aware,” says Danielle.

The Australian Government’s Long Term National Health Plan supports this passion for living a healthier lifestyle. As part of its National Preventive Health Strategy, diet is outlined as a significant way to prevent some chronic diseases. 

The HLT43021 Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetic Support), which is on the Free TAFE list for eligible students, is a full-time course, run over one year.

Students learn in a variety of ways, including in the classroom, in practical sessions at our Glen Waverley campus’s Wellness Centre and through a compulsory 120-hour practical placement opportunity.

Study units also include how to assist with:

• Meal and menu modifications
• Therapeutic diets
• Planning and evaluating meals to meet dietary guidelines

Students who complete this allied health assistance course go on to work as a dietitian assistant or nutrition assistant.

“It’s the interaction with people and the smile on their face and seeing them happy with themselves once they’ve achieved something,” says Danielle of working in the allied health assistance field.

Some graduates may expand their skills and knowledge and complete a sport diploma, which we offer as a dual SIS50321 Diploma of Sport with Diploma of Event Management SIT50322. 

Ready to turn your passion for healthy living into a rewarding career? Enrol in our Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetic Support) course and join graduates like Danielle and Arti, who are making a real difference in their communities.

Find out more about our Allied Health Assistance (Nutrition and Dietetic Support) course and how to apply.