Melanie A. Porter is a paediatrician based in Herring Road, Sydney, NSW 2109. She looks after children and young people who need careful, kind care—especially when it comes to learning, growth, and long-term health.
In her clinic, she supports families dealing with a mix of conditions. This can include genetic and developmental diagnoses like Williams Syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Down Syndrome, and Neurofibromatosis (including Neurofibromatosis Type 1, or NF1). She also works with children who have autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and other learning and behaviour needs.
Sometimes the issues start with development. At other times, families come in because of signs they have noticed at home, like skin changes. For example, she commonly sees children with acanthosis nigricans, and she helps sort out what it might mean and what next steps make sense. She also has experience with growth-related conditions, including achondroplasia, where early checks and ongoing monitoring can be really important.
Melanie’s approach is practical and steady. She understands that appointments can feel stressful, and outcomes can take time. Over time, she focuses on clear explanations, regular follow-ups, and making sure families know what to watch for. In many cases, that means working out the right plan for behaviour, development, or health monitoring, then adjusting as the child grows.
Her medical training includes formal education and paediatric studies, giving her the background to assess children across physical, developmental, and behavioural areas. She also keeps up with current guidance so her care stays aligned with what’s happening in paediatrics.
When a child needs more support, she looks at the bigger picture and coordinates care around the family’s needs. She may consider wider options like therapy and allied health support, depending on what’s going on. And where appropriate, she helps families understand what clinical trials involve in plain language, so they can make an informed choice.