Hunter speech pathology provider A Growing Understanding has secured two major national titles at the 2026 Australian Allied Health Awards in Adelaide on Saturday 10 October 2026. The paediatric practice received the Allied Health Paediatric Team Excellence award, while founder and Practice Director Lauren Haskins was named Speech Pathologist of the Year.

Marking its tenth anniversary in 2026, the practice has grown from a single speech pathologist operating out of a single consultation room in 2016 to a multidisciplinary team of 26 clinical and support professionals across two clinics in Adamstown and Warners Bay. The team provides evidence-based speech pathology, early childhood communication assessments, and family-centred therapy services for young children across Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

The national awards cap off a successful awards season for the practice, which also won Excellence in Medium Business at the Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards, where Lauren was named Outstanding Business Leader. A Growing Understanding also earned Highly Commended honours in both the Medium-Sized Business and Business Leader of the Year categories at the Business Hunter Awards.

Practice Director at A Growing Understanding, Lauren Haskins stated that the national award reflects the shared commitment of clinical practitioners and client experience officers.

“Great speech pathology isn’t just about what happens in a therapy session. It’s about understanding each child and family, using evidence-based approaches to support their individual needs, and making sure families feel informed and supported throughout their journey,” Lauren said.

“We have an incredible team, from our Speech Pathologists through to our Client Experience Officers and everyone working behind the scenes. Each person plays a part in the care and support we provide, and this award is recognition of the work they do every day. I’m incredibly proud of what our team has achieved, but what excites me most is what comes next. We’re continuing to explore how we can strengthen the services we provide, particularly when it comes to supporting communication development in the earliest years of life. For us, it’s about helping families feel informed, confident and supported, and giving children more opportunities to communicate, connect and participate in the world around them.”

Clinical Director at A Growing Understanding, Emma Hyde added that continuous clinical learning ensures care delivery remains responsive to regional families.

“Our team is committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care that makes a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families,” Emma said.

“We understand our responsibility to recognise and respond to diverse needs, and to turn good intentions into meaningful action. Through ongoing learning, collaboration and a willingness to continually improve, we’re working to ensure every child and family feels understood, valued and supported. To have our approach to care recognised on a national stage is incredibly meaningful, and something our whole team can be proud of.”

IMAGE | A Growing Understanding wins dual honours at 2026 Australian Allied Health Awards