Speech Delay & Late Talkers
For toddlers and young children who aren’t talking as much as expected for their age.
Newington is a bit further from Northmead than most suburbs we see, and some parents wonder whether the drive is worth it. Our children’s speech pathologists work face to face, about 13 km away, so we can read the small things that matter.
In the same room, a speech pathologist can see how your child moves their lips and tongue, where their attention goes, and the moment they lose interest. Those small cues shape what we try next, often within the same session.
You’re in the room too, so you see what works and why. That makes it easier to carry practice into the week, which is where much of the progress happens.
From Newington, our Northmead clinic is about 13 km away via the M4 or James Ruse Drive.
Sessions cover late talking, speech sounds, language, social communication and AAC, for children from birth to 16.
All sessions are held at our one clinic in Northmead, north-west of Newington.
Our speech pathologists support children across the full range of speech, language and communication needs.
For toddlers and young children who aren’t talking as much as expected for their age.
For children whose speech is unclear or hard to understand.
For children who find it hard to understand or use language.
Neurodiversity-affirming support, including gestalt language processing.
Support for children who use communication devices, PODD or key word sign.
OT with a clear home plan, so every visit from Newington counts.
Not sure where to start? See all speech therapy services or talk to our client care team.
A typical children’s speech therapy program at The Bridge Effect includes:
Weekly or fortnightly sessions with a qualified speech pathologist. Frequency depends on the nature of your child’s needs.
Specific, measurable goals based on your child’s assessment results and your family’s priorities.
We teach you the strategies we use so practice fits into everyday routines. The hours you spend with your child each day matter most.
Typically every 10–12 sessions, we review progress and adjust goals as your child develops.
Reviews from families who visit our Northmead clinic.
Most families use NDIS, Medicare, private health insurance, or a mix, to help fund speech therapy.
The Bridge Effect supports NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families. Speech therapy is typically funded under Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living.
Learn moreA GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (up to 5 allied health sessions a year) or the Item 135 pathway can provide a rebate.
Learn moreMany extras policies include a speech pathology benefit. We provide receipts in the format your fund needs.
Learn moreFamilies without funding are welcome as private clients. Our current fee schedule is available on request.
Learn moreChildren under 9 without an NDIS plan may be eligible for early intervention support through the NDIS Early Childhood Approach, without needing a formal diagnosis. Medicare and private health rebates can’t both be claimed for the same session. Ask us which pathway fits your family.
Our speech pathologists are members of Speech Pathology Australia and work closely with our occupational therapists, so your child’s goals are joined up across both services.
Can’t see your question? Call us on (02) 9037 1163.
About 13 km, usually 20–25 minutes by car via the M4 (tolled) or James Ruse Drive. Free parking is available at the clinic.
Yes. Our speech pathologists see Newington children from birth to 16 at our Northmead clinic. Call us on (02) 9037 1163 and we’ll help you book an initial consultation.
Many families find it is. Face-to-face sessions let your speech pathologist read small cues and adjust in the moment, and you leave each session knowing what to practise during the week.
It depends on your child’s goals. Some children come weekly, others fortnightly with more practice at home in between. We’ll suggest a frequency and review it with you.
No referral is needed. You can book with us directly. Reports from a GP, paediatrician or your child’s school are helpful to bring along.
Yes. The Bridge Effect supports NDIS self-managed and plan-managed families. If your child’s plan includes funding for speech therapy (typically under Capacity Building – Improved Daily Living), we can work within your plan. More about NDIS funding.
We serve many suburbs around Newington. See all the areas we serve, or our occupational therapy in Newington page.
Early support can make a big difference, and we’re here to walk this journey with you.
Contact us directly, or speak with your GP, paediatrician or support coordinator about a referral. A referral is not required.
Our client care team matches you with the right clinician and books an initial consultation.
We get to know your child, assess their strengths and needs, and set goals together with you.
