Nutrition Australia ACT Incorporated

Nutrition Australia ACT Incorporated (NAACT) is a not-for-profit, non-government health promotion charity dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) community through good nutrition. It operates as a division of the national organization Nutrition Australia, which is the registered business name of The Australian Nutrition Foundation Inc., founded in 1979 and incorporated in 1981[1][2].

Mission and Objectives

NAACT's mission is to enable people in the ACT to make informed food choices and contribute to creating healthier communities. Its strategic objectives include being a credible and independent voice on nutrition, engaging and collaborating with individuals and community groups, translating evidence-based scientific information into practical knowledge, and advocating for sustainable healthy food environments[5].

Governance and Accreditation

The organisation is overseen by a Committee of Management and coordinated by an Executive Officer. Services and programs are delivered by a team of Accredited Practicing Dietitians. NAACT adheres strictly to legislative and regulatory requirements, including compliance with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) and ACT Incorporated Association legislation. Employees hold current accreditation with relevant health professional bodies to ensure adherence to best practice guidelines[2][5].

Programs and Services

Nutrition Australia ACT develops and delivers a range of grant-funded nutrition education programs. It supports ACT government healthy eating initiatives and serves various community settings such as workplaces, schools, childcare centers, and disability agencies. The organization also operates a fully equipped Food Skills Kitchen where it offers cooking classes and individual cooking clinics to build skills and confidence in preparing healthy meals[2][3].

Collaboration and Advocacy

NAACT collaborates with community groups, government bodies, and other organizations to promote nutritious, affordable, and sustainable food environments. It seeks to influence policy direction and promote equitable access to healthy food in the ACT region, positioning itself as a leader in public health nutrition[1][5].

Funding and Reporting

As a registered charity, Nutrition Australia ACT prepares annual reports detailing its activities, governance, and financials, demonstrating transparency and accountability in line with requirements for incorporated associations and charitable organizations in Australia[5].

Nutrition Australia ACT Incorporated plays a vital role within the ACT region as part of the broader Nutrition Australia network, contributing evidence-based nutrition education and advocacy to improve public health outcomes through better diet and nutrition.

[1] https://nutritionaustralia.org/about/ [2] https://nutritionaustralia.org/division/division-contact-details/about-us-4-17369/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/bb44a50a-3aaf-e811-a963-000d3ad244fd [4] https://nutritionaustralia.org [5] https://nutritionaustralia.org/app/uploads/2024/03/2022-NAACT-Annual-Report-1.pdf