Natural disasters such as bushfires, floods, storms, and cyclones can create challenges for people living with diabetes.

These emergencies can create serious health risks, making preparation essential for those who rely on insulin, medication, or medical devices to maintain stable blood glucose levels.

Preparing a well-thought-out plan and being ready for natural disasters can reduce the likelihood of diabetes-related emergencies and life-threatening situations.

The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) provides valuable resources to help people living with diabetes to be prepared. It’s a dedicated natural disaster information page offering guidance on planning and managing diabetes during an emergency (NDSS Natural Disasters).

Creating a Diabetes Emergency Plan

The ‘My Diabetes Plan for Natural Disasters’ is a comprehensive guide designed to help individuals with diabetes prepare for emergencies. It includes a checklist of essential items for a diabetes emergency kit, a space to record personal details, important contact information, and a list of current medications. Keeping this plan alongside an up-to-date emergency kit in a secure location is crucial. Download the plan here: My Diabetes Plan for Natural Disasters.

What to include in a Diabetes Emergency Kit

A well-prepared diabetes emergency kit should contain essential supplies, including:

• Blood glucose monitoring equipment and extra batteries
• Insulin, oral medications, and necessary prescriptions
• Non-perishable food and water supplies
• Glucose tablets or other quick-acting hypoglycaemia treatments such as jellybeans or cans of soft drink
• A list of emergency contacts, including healthcare providers
• Medical identification and important documents

Also ensuring cold storage is available if required (e.g. an eski, cool wallet, or generator) is important for any medications that need to be kept cold.

The ‘My Diabetes Plan’ is also available in many languages, including Arabic, Chinese (simplified and traditional), Greek, Hindi, Italian, Turkish, and Vietnamese.

Supporting health professionals and emergency services

Healthcare providers and emergency services play a crucial role in helping people with diabetes during disasters. The NDSS website offers tailored resources for these professionals, including four educational videos on how to support individuals with diabetes before, during, and after an emergency.

These videos cover:

• The impact of natural disasters on diabetes management
• How to help people prepare for a disaster
• How to use the ‘My Diabetes Plan’ effectively
• Essential resources for diabetes management in emergencies

For more information, visit the NDSS website and access resources for individuals, healthcare professionals, emergency services, and local councils.

Being prepared can make a significant difference in safeguarding health and well-being during a crisis.

Take action now and ensure that you, or your loved ones living with diabetes, are ready for any emergency.

Tasmania’s much-anticipated Pollie Pedal 2025 officially launched today, with riders embarking from Hagley Farm School in Launceston.

Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC, Governor of Tasmania, Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, and Diabetes Australia Chief Operating Officer Craig Sedgman joined students and supporters to celebrate the event’s impact in raising funds and awareness for diabetes.

The inspiring three-day cycling event, which runs from February 28 to March 2, will see cyclists traverse over 300km of Tasmania’s stunning landscape, riding to support the 88,000 Tasmanians living with diabetes and prediabetes.

For Deputy Premier Barnett, an old boy of Hagley Farm School who lives with type 1 diabetes and takes part in Pollie Pedal every year, the event is a personal and community milestone.

Before he started cycling, Deputy Premier Barnett was delighted to meet Hagley Farm School Year 4 student Charlie Medwin and his parents, Karissa and Jesse. Charlie has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in April last year, and was a special representative of the diabetes community at the Pollie Pedal launch this morning.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Barnett emphasized the event’s importance beyond the cycling challenge.

“Pollie Pedal is about resilience, community, and the determination to make a difference. As someone who manages type 1 diabetes every day, I understand the significance of support, education, and research in changing lives,” Mr Barnett said.

“This ride is a powerful way to unite Tasmanians in our mission to reduce the impact of diabetes. Every turn of the pedals represents hope for those living with this condition. Whether you ride, donate, or cheer from the sidelines, your contribution matters.”

Diabetes Australia COO Craig Sedgman praised the Tasmanian community’s enduring commitment to the cause.

“Pollie Pedal is more than a fundraising event. It’s a movement of people coming together to drive change and create a healthier future,” Mr Sedgman said.

“We know that diabetes affects around two million Australians, and the numbers are rising. But through initiatives like Pollie Pedal, we can provide vital programs, invest in prevention, and support those already living with diabetes.

“Worryingly, rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade.

“We need urgent action to stem the tide of this epidemic and support people who are living with diabetes. Community events like Pollie Pedal support us to do that important work,” he said.

Since its inception in 2006, Pollie Pedal has raised over $850,000, funding essential diabetes programs and research. The 2025 ride will take cyclists through Tasmania’s breathtaking Meander and Tamar Valleys, passing through seaside towns, rolling farmlands, and vibrant rural communities.

Pollie Pedal is open to cyclists of all abilities. Whether riding solo or forming a team, participants will not only experience Tasmania’s stunning backroads but also make a lasting impact on diabetes awareness and support.

Make a difference
To donate or learn more, visit: Pollie Pedal 2025 or email PolliePedal@diabetesaustralia.com.au.

Fast Facts about Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025:

• Dates: February 28 – March 2, 2025
• Who can participate? Cyclists of all skill levels
• Funds raised since 2006: Over $850,000
• Cause: Supporting Tasmanians living with diabetes and funding prevention efforts

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

With today’s announcement that Diabetes Victoria has taken the decision to resign as a member of Diabetes Australia, the Diabetes Australia director nominated by Diabetes Victoria will leave the Diabetes Australia Board.

Diabetes Australia Chair, Andrew Rutherford, acknowledged director Kathryn Arndt’s service.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Kathryn Arndt for her diligence and commitment in her 18 months as a director of Diabetes Australia. We wish her well for the future.”

In a related change, Diabetes Victoria CEO Glen Noonan has left the Board of Diabetes Australia’s subsidiary Diabetes Australia Research Limited. Diabetes Australia’s Chair also extends the Board’s thanks for Mr Noonan’s service.

Diabetes Victoria will cease to be a member of Diabetes Australia from 31 March 2025.

Diabetes Australia will continue its role as the national peak body including overseeing the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS). Diabetes Victoria will continue to operate as the Victorian peak body and NDSS state agent.

Diabetes Australia will continue to work with Diabetes Victoria as it does with other state-based diabetes organisations.

The change in membership will not impact any existing state-based service delivery or local state-based support programs provided to people living with diabetes.

Australians will continue to benefit from a nationally delivered, consistent and equitable access model from Diabetes Australia, alongside the community-based delivery that state-based organisations like Diabetes Victoria have excelled at.

Diabetes Australia Chair, Mr Rutherford, said: “This change allows Diabetes Australia and Diabetes Victoria to focus on their own strategic priorities and individual missions. Diabetes Australia will continue to focus on working with stakeholders across the country to deliver equal access for Australians living with or at risk of diabetes, irrespective of their location or socio-economic circumstances.”

Diabetes Victoria President, Mr Loveridge, said: “Our commitment to improving the lives of people affected by diabetes is stronger than ever. We will continue our outstanding work in relation to the prevention of diabetes in Victoria, and support, education, and care of those affected by diabetes across the state.”

Diabetes Australia has this week extended its gratitude to retiring Federal MPs Graham Perrett and Rowan Ramsey for their tireless advocacy and commitment to the diabetes community in the Australian Parliament.  

As co-chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes group, they played a critical role in advancing diabetes awareness, policy, and access to life-changing technology for people living with diabetes. 

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain commended both MPs for their leadership and dedication to improving the lives of Australians affected by diabetes. 

“Graham Perrett and Rowan Ramsey have been fearless and passionate champions for the diabetes community. Their bipartisan support for the sector has helped drive important initiatives, including securing greater access to diabetes technology such as Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) for people living with type 1 diabetes.  

“For nearly a decade, they demonstrated their commitment to reducing the burden of diabetes. Their collaboration shows what can be achieved when people come together with the common goal of improving the health of all Australians. 

“Their work has made a real and lasting impact on peoples’ lives,” Ms Cain said. 

Both MPs have now delivered their valedictory speeches in Parliament. 

“Graham and Rowan leave behind an extraordinary legacy of advocacy, and Diabetes Australia thanks them for their unwavering support,” Ms Cain said. 

“We look forward to engaging with new co-chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes in the next Parliament.” 

Diabetes Australia representatives are in Federal Parliament this week calling on both sides of politics to commit to funding equitable access to diabetes technologies during the upcoming Federal Election.  

Expanding subsidies for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring devices will ensure Australians living with all types of diabetes have access to the technology they need to live well. 

With more than 1.5 million Australians living with diabetes, and projections indicating that number will exceed 3.1 million by 2050, the need for affordable access to this technology has never been greater.  

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said Continuous Glucose Monitoring devices (CGMs) and Insulin Pumps change, and save, lives. 

“Not only do they enhance quality of life, research shows that they also reduce hospital admissions, and prevent long-term complications such as heart disease, blindness, and kidney failure.  

“Yet, despite their life-saving potential, many Australians living with diabetes simply can’t afford these technologies,” Ms Cain said. 

“The cost-of-living crisis is placing immense pressure on Australians living with diabetes, forcing many to choose between essential medical technology and basic necessities. No one should have to make that choice.” 

Diabetes Australia is urging the Federal Government and the Opposition to commit $200 million over four years to expand subsidised access to diabetes technologies for those who would benefit the most.  

“We’re grateful that the Federal Government has expanded CGM subsidies for all Australians with type 1 diabetes in recent years; however, we still have a long way to go,” Ms Cain said.  

“People with type 2 diabetes requiring multiple daily insulin injections are still denied subsidised CGM access, despite clear evidence of improved health outcomes and cost savings for the healthcare system.  

“At the same time, thousands of Australians living with type 1 diabetes are unable to afford insulin pumps, with private health insurance being the only viable pathway for many. That’s an expensive option that remains out of reach for some people.” 

The recent Federal Parliamentary Inquiry into Diabetes unequivocally supported the expansion of diabetes technology subsidies, stating that “ensuring better access to this technology for all Australians must be a priority”.  

Research has shown that insulin pumps and CGM technology significantly improve blood glucose management, reducing the risk of severe hypoglycaemia, improving time-in-range, and ultimately leads to fewer diabetes-related complications.  

The economic case is just as strong: expanding access will reduce emergency department visits, ambulance callouts, and hospitalisations, providing long-term savings for Australia’s healthcare system. 

Diabetes Australia’s proposed reforms will prioritise:

Insulin pumps for people living with type 1 diabetes who are:

• under 21 years of age
• over 21 years of age with a health care card; and
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

CGM devices for people living with type 2 and other types of diabetes who are:

• pregnant
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
• under the age of 21; and
• requiring multiple daily injections of insulin.

Ms Cain said the time for action is now because no Australian should be left behind. 

“Diabetes does not discriminate based on income, postcode, or background, so why should access to life-saving technology?” Ms Cain said. 

“We urge policymakers to commit to the $200 million investment outlined in our Position Statement, ensuring that every Australian has equitable access to the diabetes technology they need to lead healthier, fuller lives.” 

The Diabetes Alliance has called on the Federal Government to commit to, and fund, the recommendations of the Parliament Inquiry into Diabetes.

In a submission to the Federal Budget process, the Alliance highlighted key priorities from the recommendations including access to diabetes technologies, investment in research, support for the diabetes workforce and investment in prevention. 

With over two million Australians living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, the condition is the cause of a growing crisis costing the health system $3.4 billion annually.

The Parliamentary Inquiry report, The State of Diabetes Mellitus in Australia, includes 23 recommendations including support for expanding access to diabetes technologies, coordinating diabetes research, better funding the diabetes workforce and investing in diabetes prevention. The recommendations are a comprehensive package of measures that would begin to stem the tide of Australia’s diabetes epidemic

Diabetes Australia’s position statement on equitable access to technology formed part of the budget submission. It advocates for a staged approach to expanding subsidies for insulin pumps for people living with type 1 diabetes and continuous glucose monitoring devices for people living with type 2 diabetes.

More funding for diabetes research is also a key focus for the Federal Budget. A decline in funding for diabetes research in Australia has had a significant impact on the field.

In 2023, NHMRC (the Australian Government’s primary health and medical research funding agency), provided only $19 million for diabetes research, which is less than half of the amount allocated in 2022.

A budget submission from the Australian Diabetes Society, Diabetes Australia and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association calls for $50 million in funding for priority areas of research including the causes of diabetes, prevention and remission, complications, and the rates of diabetes in the general population; as well as $75 million for diabetes-specific investigator grants.

The sector acknowledges and celebrates the Federal Government’s announcement last year to fund the Clinical Research Network of JDRF Australia. This is a significant investment in type 1 diabetes research. The Alliance is advocating for investment in other areas of diabetes research as well.

The Australian Diabetes Alliance

The Australian Diabetes Alliance comprises the country’s major diabetes organisations in collective advocacy for the sector: Diabetes Australia, the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, the Australian Diabetes Society, JDRF Australia, the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society, and the Australian and New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes.

By Credentialled Diabetes Educator, Carolien Koreneff

Did you know that people with type 2 diabetes are two to four times more likely to develop heart disease? Yet research shows that only 12% of people with type 2 diabetes think they are personally at risk. The connection between diabetes and heart disease is closer than many people realise.

People with type 1 diabetes are also at increased risk of heart disease.

Knowing that your heart could be affected by diabetes is the first step to reducing your risk.

What is heart disease?

Heart disease is a collective term for different problems that affect the structure and function of the heart muscle. It includes coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias and valve disease.

The medical term cardiovascular disease includes all types of heart problems, as well as blood vessel damage and stroke. The most common type of cardiovascular disease is coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery disease

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is very common and is caused by a build-up of plaque in the arteries, the blood vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the heart. Plaque is the build-up of fats and other substances in the artery walls. This build-up of plaque can cause a narrowing or complete blockage of blood vessels, which affects the blood flow.

Coronary artery disease is also associated with a hardening of the arteries, this is referred to as atherosclerosis. Hardening of the arteries can also happen in other parts of your body, for example in your feet and legs – this is referred to as peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Coronary artery disease is sometimes also called coronary heart disease (CHD) or ischaemic heart disease (IHD); it usually takes years to develop.

Heart attack

If the blood flow to the heart is decreased it can cause a heart attack. Similarly, if the blood flow to the brain is decreased it can cause a stroke.

Heart attacks happen when the plaque in a blood vessel bursts and clogs the coronary artery. Heart attacks require urgent medical treatment to restore the blood flow to the heart.

It is important to note that heart attacks are different from a cardiac arrest. Heart attacks are a circulatory problem, whereas a cardiac arrest is an electrical problem.

Cardiac arrest

Cardiac arrests are often caused by arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms) that cause the heart to malfunction and stop beating. This stops blood from flowing to the brain and other vital organs and can lead to death if not treated urgently.

A person who is having a cardiac arrest will be unconscious, will not be breathing and may die within three minutes unless chest compressions are started immediately and medical care is provided.

Arrythmias

Arrythmias, as mentioned above, are abnormal heart rhythms caused by the heart’s electrical system which controls the heart’s pumping action. People often describe arrythmias as palpitations or fluttering feelings in the chest.

Arrythmias can cause the heartbeat to become too slow, too fast, or irregular. The most common type of arrythmia is atrial fibrillation (AF). Other examples of arrythmias include atrial flutter, ectopic heartbeats, and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).

Heart failure

Heart failure happens when the heart muscle is damaged and does not pump properly. Causes can include heart attacks, high blood pressure and valve problems, which can all lead to the heart becoming weaker, stiffer and bigger. This can lead to tiredness, shortness of breath, oedema (swelling in legs and feet) and a decreased ability to do physical activity. Treatment involves medications to strengthen the heart as well as managing other conditions that can affect the heart.

Valve disease

The four cardiac valves mentioned above keep the blood flowing in the right direction. If one or more of these valves become damaged they may stop opening and closing properly and this can lead to chest pain and shortness of breath. Some people are born with valve disease (this if often called congenital heart disease), but it can also be caused by rheumatic heart disease, acute rheumatic fever or a heart condition such as heart failure or a heart attack.

There are three main types of heart valve disease:

1. Stenosis – where the valves are thick or stiff
2. Regurgitation – where the valve flaps don’t close properly and ‘leak’
3. Atresia – this is a condition where the valve is not formed correctly and tissue blocks the blood flow.

One of the first signs of heart valve problems is a heart murmur, this is an abnormal sound that your doctor can hear when listening to your heartbeat with a stethoscope. However, having a heart murmur does not always mean that there is a problem with your heart. But if you experience symptoms of heart valve disease it is important to see a doctor because, if left untreated, heart valve disease can lead to heart failure.

Diabetes and heart disease

Diabetes puts you at risk of heart disease because diabetes can change the chemical makeup of some of the substances found in the blood. This can cause a narrowing or complete blockage of blood vessels through the build-up of plaque, even if your cholesterol levels are normal.

High blood pressure can put further strain on your heart. For this reason, people with diabetes are regularly recommended to take blood pressure lowering medications, often in combination with cholesterol lowering medication.

What are the symptoms of heart disease?

The most common symptom of heart disease is chest pain or discomfort. This is referred to as angina.

For many people with diabetes the symptoms are very subtle and the first clue that they have coronary artery disease is a heart attack. Symptoms of a heart attack include:

• Angina
• Shortness of breath
• Pain or discomfort in the arms and/or shoulder
• Tingling in the lips
• Weakness
• Light-headedness or dizziness
• Nausea, vomiting or heartburn
• Cold sweat

Sometimes heart disease is not diagnosed until a person experiences arrhythmia or heart failure. Symptoms of heart failure include:

• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Swelling of the feet, ankles, legs or veins in the neck

What are the risk factors for heart disease?

The main risk factors for developing heart disease are high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking.

Lifestyle choices can also increase your risk, particularly through an unhealthy diet, excessive alcohol use, physical inactivity and overweight or obesity.

Several other medical conditions can put people at a higher risk as well. You may have guessed it; diabetes is on top of this list.

Having a family history of heart disease can also increase your risk.

Reducing your risk of heart disease

Taking care of your heart is important, especially when you have diabetes. Here are some actions you can take to reduce your risk of heart disease:

• Be physically active
• Make healthy food choices
• Reduce your intake of saturated fats, trans fat, salt/sodium and alcohol
• Keep blood fats such as cholesterol and triglycerides in the target range
• Manage high blood pressure
• Try and lose weight if your weight is above the healthy weight range
• Don’t smoke – if you do smoke try and quit
• Visit Diabetes Australia’s heart-focused campaign takediabetes2heart.com.au.

Take Diabetes 2 Heart Campaign

The Take Diabetes 2 Heart campaign is all about inspiring people with diabetes, and the people who love them, to take positive steps to avoid cardiovascular disease. The three most important steps on the path to good heart health are: visiting your doctor to have a conversation about what you can do to reduce your risk; eating a balanced diet; and incorporating exercise into your daily routine. Visit the website for helpful information, resources and a heart healthy recipe book that you can download for free. 

Blood pressure

As your heart pumps your blood through your arteries, a force or pressure is created as the blood travels; this is known as blood pressure. Your blood pressure will go up and down naturally throughout the day and night, this depends on what you are doing.

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a main risk for heart disease, especially heart attacks and strokes. High blood pressure can also increase your risk of kidney disease, eye disease and nerve damage.

Many people have high blood pressure without knowing it, so it is important to get your blood pressure checked regularly.

There are a number of things that can increase your risk of developing hypertension, including having a family history of hypertension, being overweight, insufficient physical activity, smoking, alcohol intake and food choices such as eating too much salt.

Blood pressure targets can vary depending on your age, existing heart disease, kidney disease, other medical conditions and your risk of a stroke. In Australia it is generally recommended to aim for a blood pressure of less than 140/90 millimetres of mercury (mmHg).

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that your body needs to build cells, to make certain hormones and to produce vitamin D. It is also important in digestion of food. Some foods contain cholesterol; your body also produces it.

When your doctor orders a cholesterol check the pathologist will check and report on the following types of blood fat:

• Total cholesterol – a calculation of all the different types of cholesterol in your blood
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – ‘bad’ or ‘lousy’ cholesterol, because it sticks to the walls of arteries and cause plaque.
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) – ‘good’ or ‘healthy’ cholesterol, because it carries LDL away from the arteries, back to the liver where it is broken down.
• Triglycerides – the most common fat in the body that will increase when eating a lot of high fat and sugary foods, when drinking too much alcohol, or if you are overweight.

There is not one single cause of high cholesterol, but there are risk factors that are modifiable. These include smoking, your age, being overweight or obese, having a family history, and unfavourable lifestyle choices such as an unhealthy diet and a lack of physical activity.

If you experience any symptoms of a heart attack it is important to get medical help immediately. Call 000 without delay.

Tasmania’s stunning landscapes will once again play host to Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025, a three-day cycling event to raise funds and awareness in support of people living with diabetes.

From Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 2, cyclists of all levels will have the chance to ride alongside Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, who lives with type 1 diabetes, and help make a lasting difference in their community.

With only one month to go until the riders start pedalling, Deputy Premier Barnett is encouraging the community to get involved.

“Pollie Pedal is more than a cycling event. It’s a statement of hope and solidarity,” said Deputy Premier Barnett, who is a passionate advocate for diabetes awareness.

“As someone living with type 1 diabetes, I know firsthand how critical it is to support the people and families affected by this condition.

“The event not only raises much-needed funds for diabetes, but it also brings people together. I’m honoured to be part of it again this year and encourage everyone to register or donate,” he said.

This is Pollie Pedal’s 18^th ride and it has become a cornerstone event in Tasmania, raising over $850,000 since 2006 to fund vital diabetes programs and research. Participants will traverse picturesque coastal roads and rolling hills, uniting for a shared mission to reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals and families.

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO, Justine Cain, applauded the Tasmanian community’s enduring support for Pollie Pedal.

“This event embodies the spirit of Tasmanians: generous, united, and driven by purpose,” Ms Cain said. “Every kilometre ridden and every dollar donated takes us closer to a future free from diabetes.

“We’re so proud to stand with Guy and all the participants who inspire us with their dedication and enthusiasm.”

This event comes at a time when two million Australians are living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, and even more are living with prediabetes, including 88,000 people in Tasmania.

“Diabetes, if not managed appropriately, can lead to devastating complications such as limb amputation, kidney disease, heart attack and vision loss,” Ms Cain said.

“Worryingly, rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade.

“We need urgent action to stem the tide of this epidemic and support people who are living with diabetes. Community events like Pollie Pedal support us to do that important work,” she said.

Russell James is a Registered Nurse as well as a lecturer at the University of Tasmania and has a strong family history of type 1 diabetes. He lives in Hobart with his wife and two boys, William, 11, and Xavier, 10. Both Russell and Xavier live with type one diabetes.

“My family’s journey with type 1 diabetes spans generations: my father, my aunt, myself, and now Xavier. Initiatives like Pollie Pedal raise awareness and funds that will help break this cycle for future generations,” Dr James said.

“Cycling alongside Xavier is a powerful reminder that diabetes doesn’t define us. With the right support, education and determination, we can overcome any obstacle and keep moving forward.”

Deputy Premier Barnett, Xavier and Russell James are pictured above after speaking with journalists today at a press conference on the lawns of Hobart’s Parliament House to raise awareness of the upcoming ride.

Pollie Pedal isn’t just for seasoned cyclists; it’s for anyone passionate about making a difference. The event offers an opportunity to experience Tasmania’s breathtaking scenery while contributing to a cause that affects so many.

To register as a rider, sponsor, or donate, visit Pollie Pedal 2025 on Diabetes Australia website or email PolliePedal@diabetesaustralia.com.au.

Join us in the journey toward healthier, happier futures for all Tasmanians.

Fast Facts about Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025:

• Dates: Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 2, 2025
• Who can participate? Cyclists of all skill levels
• Funds raised since 2006: Over $850,000
• Cause: Supporting Tasmanians living with diabetes and funding prevention efforts

Together, let’s pedal for change.

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

Diabetes Australia is alerting our community to the rise of fraudulent advertisements and scams for bogus products, including those that claim false endorsement by Diabetes Australia.

Scammers are using deceptive tactics, including fake endorsements from supposed doctors and misleading claims about product origins, to market questionable blood glucose monitoring devices and other products to vulnerable individuals.

One such scam involves a device marketed as the “Bikenda Non-Invasive Blood Glucose Meter,” falsely described as Australian-made and, in some advertisements, Diabetes Australia-approved.

These ads, often appearing on social media platforms such as Facebook, are designed to exploit trust and target individuals managing diabetes. While scammers frequently rotate the products they promote, their methods are consistent: they publish fabricated claims and unauthorised use of reputable names to boost credibility.

We strongly advise our community to remain vigilant and verify product claims through trusted sources before making any purchases.

If you encounter suspicious advertisements or claims involving Diabetes Australia’s name, please take the following steps:

1. Avoid Engagement: Do not click on links, share, or purchase products promoted in such advertisements.
2. Report Scams: File a complaint with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) via their Scamwatch website.
3. Notify Us: Report instances of fraud using our name to Diabetes Australia so we can investigate at info@diabetesaustralia.com.au and take action.
4. Contact the TGA: If you suspect a product is being falsely advertised as compliant, report it to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) at TGA Compliance Hub.

We are committed to protecting our community from misleading and harmful practices. By staying informed and vigilant, we can collectively fight back against these scams and safeguard the trust placed in our organisation.