For Dietitians

Career Development Pathway

SDA is pleased to finally announce the implementation of its Career Development Pathway (CDP). The CDP represents more than two years of design, member consultation, and development, towards better support and recognition for Sports Dietitian professionals as specialists in their field. It is exciting to be leading the way in professional development towards this dietetic specialisation. Implementation of the CDP over the next six months will mean a number of necessary changes towards accreditation of Sports Dietitians and we hope you will be patient with the initial phases of this progression.

As part of the new accreditation process and in recognition of universities around Australia running up to date base theoretical sports nutrition units, the SDA 4 day Sports Nutrition Course (SNC) over the past 4 years has evolved and changed its focus. The SNC provides specialty education that is different to that provided in the university setting.  The current SNC is designed to immerse participants in the practice and delivery of sports nutrition for 4 days in an environment of elite athletes and elite sports servicing (The Australian Institute of Sport).

As of the 1st Feb 2009 all members applying to be full members of Sports Dietitians Australia will be required to complete the 4 day course in order to gain full membership and apply for various levels of accreditation under the CDP. Accredited University undergraduate and post graduate units in sports nutrition will still be recognised as vital theoretical components of the CDP and will earn points that can be used towards gaining accreditation.  Current full members who have not completed the SNC and have gained full membership based on the completion of an accredited university course will need to apply for accreditation; each member's experience and suitability will be assessed on a case by case basis against set competencies.