Allergy & Early Life Care

Caring for families from the very beginning.

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Dr. Alison Hanks

About Dr. Alison Hanks

I'm a GP with a special interest in supporting families through the early years and I also have a special interest in allergic disease. I am based on the Sunshine Coast Queensland and can be found at Nambour Medical Centre. I love walking alongside parents as they care for their babies and children — whether that's with feeding, sleep, settling, or perinatal wellbeing. I have done additional training in lactation medicine and am recognised as an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and NDC-trained practitioner (formerly the Possums Program). I bring gentle, evidence-based guidance to help families feel confident and supported.

I also have additional qualifications in allergy medicine, including a Postgraduate Certificate of Allergy from Imperial College London. I am passionate about helping all members of the family identify and manage allergic conditions with care and clarity.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science, University of Sydney
  • Bachelor of Medicine/ Bachelor of Surgery (Honours Class 1), University of Queensland
  • Fellowship with Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (FRACGP)
  • International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
  • Postgraduate Certificate in Allergy, Imperial College London
Additional Education/ Experience:
  • Sydney Child Health Program
  • FPAA National Certificate in Reproductive and Sexual Health for Doctors (theory course certificate of attendance)
  • Neuroprotective Developmental Care Accreditation (Possums Program)
  • Paediatric Feeding Insights Course
  • General Practitioner with Special Interest in Immunology (Allergy), Sunshine Coast University Hospital

Infant & Early Childhood Care

Dr Alison has a passion for helping families navigate the early years. She is an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) and holds accreditation with the NDC program (formally known as the Possums Program).

As a GP, Alison is able to provide care for all members of the family. Some areas she can help with include:

  • Perinatal mental health / adjustment to parenthood (parents and caregivers)
  • Breastfeeding and infant feeding difficulties including:
    • Nipple pain
    • Mastitis / blocked ducts
    • Concern regarding low milk supply or oversupply
    • Faltering growth in baby
    • Weaning or return to work advice
    • Suspected allergies / intolerances
    • Oral tie assessments
    • Breast or bottle aversion
  • Antenatal breastfeeding advice
  • Childhood feeding issues (selective eating, family stress with meals)
  • Infant sleep difficulties
  • Unsettled babies
  • Constipation / bowel concerns / reflux

Allergy Care

Dr Alison has a special interest in allergies impacting all ages. She has completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Allergy with Imperial College London and has a position at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital working as a GP with Special Interest in Allergy.

What can be seen:

  • Urticaria / angioedema
  • Allergic rhinitis
  • Atopic dermatitis (eczema)
  • Food allergy concerns
  • Allergies/ intolerance in babies
  • Solid introduction / allergy risk reduction advice

When needed, Alison can do allergy testing in the form of a blood test (RAST test) or skin prick test. Allergy testing is not always appropriate however and the indication will be discussed with you during a comprehensive assessment.

There are some conditions that may require review in a specialist allergy centre and when appropriate she may recommend ongoing referral.

Dr Alison is an ASCIA Medical Associate member

Family Medicine

Dr Alison is a GP who enjoys caring for all members of the family. She provides comprehensive care for people at every stage of life- from newborns through to older adults. Dr Alison enjoys building long-term relationships with individuals and takes a holistic and compassionate approach to care.

Preventive Health

Good health is about more than treating illness — it's about preventing it where possible. Dr Alison works with patients to stay well through regular health checks, screening, immunisations, and lifestyle support. By identifying risks early and creating practical, personalised plans she tries to work with you to prevent problems before they arise.

Appointments

Dr Alison Hanks is currently accepting new patients for allergy and infant care at Nambour Medical Centre on the Sunshine Coast. Please let the reception staff know you're booking for Dr Alison Hanks with one of the above concerns.

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