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

Diabetes Australia has welcomed commitments from both Labor and the Coalition to invest in more bulk billed GP visits.  

With Australia in the midst of a diabetes epidemic, greater access to primary care is necessary to support diabetes screening, as well as management, in order to avoid complications such as heart and kidney disease.  

The announcements mean GP bulk billing incentives will be expanded to all Australians and an additional new incentive payment will be established for practices that bulk bill every patient. 

With more than 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 majority of diabetes management and review for type 2 diabetes occurs in the primary care setting, so investments that make it easier for people to access that care are welcome. 

In the lead up to the Federal Election, Diabetes Australia is also calling on both sides of politics to commit to funding equitable access to diabetes technologies. 

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.  

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.    

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.

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

The Department of Home Affairs has recently advised that some changes to security screening will come into effect at Australian airports from 1 February 2025.

The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that where a person has a medical device or equipment, and the security officer determines that it can’t be screened by body scanning equipment or a walk-through metal detector, other screening methods appropriate for the person’s medical device must be used.

General changes from 1 February 2025 include:

• Where a person with special circumstances is unsuitable for body scanner or walk through metal detector screening, or where further screening is required, a private screening facility must be offered by a screening officer prior to undertaking secondary screening processes on the person.

• Extra screening methods will be required to resolve alarms when passing through security screening. Under current requirements one secondary screening method is typically used by the screening officer to resolve the alarm, for example, hand-held metal detector. Under the incoming requirements, screening officers may be required to use two methods for screening, for example, explosive trace detection and hand-held metal detector. Screening officers have a number of screening methods available to them including a frisk, and will select the most appropriate for the circumstances.

• A frisk search should be undertaken by a screening officer of the same gender as the traveller where practicable. It is not always possible for all genders to be represented at the screening point on any given day. Where a frisk search is to be conducted, and the screening officer and passenger are of a different gender, both parties must consent to the frisk and specific rules must be followed.

The Department has also clarified some key pieces of information including that a screening officer must not remove, attempt to remove, or interfere with a medical device or equipment, or ask the passenger to remove the medical device or equipment.

Other clarifications include:

• Under Australia’s aviation security legislation, passengers at Australian airports are not able to ask for or select their own method of screening, and when presenting at a screening point are taken to consent to all methods of screening other than a frisk search.
• Passengers travelling with a medical device or medical equipment are not required to apply for an exemption from screening, but nor are they exempt from screening.
• It is recommended that passengers with a medical device or medical equipment inform the screening officer before beginning the screening process.
• It is also recommended that passengers with a medical device or medical equipment that are concerned may not be suitable for screening using body scanner or walk-through metal detector carry a letter or supporting documentation from a legal medical practitioner and show this to the screening officer before beginning the screening process. It is then at each airport’s discretion which evidence they choose to accept, and they are likely to confirm the stated device is present on the person.
• Where a person has a medical device or equipment, and it is determined by the screening officer it is not suitable for screening by body scanning equipment or walk-through metal detector, alternate screening methods appropriate for the person’s medical device must be completed.
• If a passenger has any questions or is uncomfortable at any time throughout the screening process, it is recommended they that they speak with the on-duty screening supervisor. They can also provide feedback about their experience by contacting the relevant airport directly. 

The Department has further clarified that body scanners in Australia do not use x-rays; they use millimetre-waves, part of the radio frequency spectrum utilised by many devices in everyday public use, such as mobile phones and wireless network devices.

Diabetes Australia continues to encourage people wearing medical devices to follow the advice from the manufacturer and their health professional about safe methods of security screening, and to travel with a letter from a health practitioner if the device can’t go through a body scanner.

We are continuing to advocate for better airport security screening measures for people wearing insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring devices.

In our advocacy to the Federal Government, airports and manufacturers we are working to ensure better training of security staff and more comprehensive advice from manufacturers.

More information about the changes listed above will be available on the Department’s TravelSecure website from 1 February.

An Urgent Product Correction Notification has been issued for Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) receivers.

Manufacturer AMSL Diabetes says some customers of the G6 receiver may experience an issue where alerts/alarms do not function as they should. In very rare instances, the alert/alarm may be missed or delayed.  

Users rely on these alerts to show glucose levels that are too high or too low. If these alerts do not operate as expected, users may not receive timely notifications.

The manufacturer lists identification information relating to the affected devices as (STK-GS-120 – All batches) ARTG 169241.

Users are urged to take immediate action to ensure their device is functioning correctly and to avoid potential health risks.

The manufacturer has outlined a series of steps for users to verify that their alerts are functioning properly. These include checking the device settings, ensuring notifications are enabled, and confirming that software updates have been installed. Additionally, users can perform regular manual glucose monitoring as a backup measure.

Individuals who experience issues with their device should seek immediate help from Dexcom’s customer support team on 1300 851 056 or email diabetes@amsl.com.au with the product serial number listed on the back.

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.