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.” 

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

Tasmania’s deputy premier, Guy Barnett, who lives with type 1 diabetes, is joining Pollie Pedal again this year to support Tasmanians living with diabetes.

Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025 will be run from Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 2. This unique three-day road cycling event will see participants ride alongside Mr Barnett to support the more than 32,000 Tasmanians living with diabetes and to help prevent others from developing the condition.

Next year will mark 18 years of Diabetes Australia’s involvement with Pollie Pedal, a milestone of commitment to reducing the impact of diabetes. Since its inception in 2006, the event has covered more than 5,000km and raised $850,000 for vital diabetes programs and research.

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO, Justine Cain, said the event is a testament to the strength and generosity of the Tasmanian community.

“Pollie Pedal Tasmania is more than just a cycling event: It’s a powerful statement of unity and support for those living with diabetes. Over the past 18 years, we’ve seen incredible courage from participants and generosity from sponsors who have helped us make a real difference,” said Ms Cain.

“Every kilometre pedalled, every dollar raised, and every story shared brings us closer to a future where diabetes has less impact on individuals, families, and communities. We’re so proud to partner with Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, whose personal journey with type 1 diabetes inspires so many.”

Deputy Premier Barnett, an advocate for diabetes awareness and a Pollie Pedal champion, is passionate about the event’s mission. Reflecting on previous rides, he told Tasmania’s Parliament:

“Pollie Pedal is designed to make a difference—and it has. Through this incredible event, we’ve raised funds and awareness that have supported thousands of Tasmanians. I’m honoured to ride alongside our community once again and look forward to another successful year.”

Cyclists of all levels are invited to join this inspiring journey through Tasmania’s stunning landscapes, from rolling hills to coastal roads. To register as a rider or sponsor the event, contact Diabetes Australia via email at PolliePedal@diabetesaustralia.com.au or visit our website at Polllie Pedal 2025.

Diabetes Australia has announced it will invest $40 million in diabetes research over the next 10 years.

In light of the current crisis in government funding for diabetes research, Diabetes Australia is committed to supporting the country’s world leading diabetes researchers in their efforts to find a cure.

Group CEO Justine Cain said Diabetes Australia, as the national peak body, was steadfast in its resolve to provide leadership around research funding.

“Research is the key to changing the future of diabetes in Australia. It creates hope for a cure, and for better day-to-day management, which is vital for people living with diabetes,” Ms Cain said.

“This significant commitment, by Diabetes Australia, will provide greater certainty for our diabetes research community and grow its life changing impact in discovering better treatments, and ultimately a cure for all types of diabetes. We are unwavering in our commitment to support the community,” she said.

Diabetes Australia will engage with the research community and people living with diabetes in early 2025 to design an approach that ensures that this $40 million investment achieves maximum impact over the next 10 years.

Australian Diabetes Society CEO Professor Sof Andrikopoulos said the research community welcomed the announcement.

“Understanding the condition’s process and its complications is the only way we can ensure people living with diabetes can live well. This can only happen with significant investment in research,” Associate Professor Andrikopoulos said.

Diabetes Australia has also announced that the new Diabetes Community Priority Grants will open for applications next week, providing a minimum of four grants of up to $100,000 each.

The program will fund projects that address the research priorities and unmet needs of the diabetes community as well as amplify lived experience voices.

“We recognise that research needs to be centred in lived experience, so through these grants we are involving people who live with diabetes throughout the research process,” Ms Cain said.

“These new grants signal our commitment to ensuring the diabetes community has a strong voice in research.”

Diabetes Australia’s Director of Research Professor Grant Brinkworth said having people with lived experience at the centre of research would change the focus of research efforts around Australia.

“Our commitment is to identify the needs of the diabetes community and fund the research that develops evidence-based solutions to address those needs.” 

The new grants will encourage applicants to describe the potential translation and impact of the proposed project, so that research with real-world application can be identified.

Diabetes Australia has also announced the 2025 Diabetes Australia Research Program (DARP) recipients.

The 2025 awards include eight general grants and three prestigious awards: the 2025 Charles Coghlan OAM Emerging Researcher Award (funded by a bequest to Diabetes Australia and Diabetes Victoria), the 2025 Millennium Type 1 Award, and the 2025 Millennium Type 2 Award.

Projects span a variety of disciplines including the development of a novel formulation for the treatment of type 1 diabetes, and a better understanding of the link between gestational diabetes (the fastest growing type of diabetes) and type 2 diabetes.

During National Diabetes Week, Diabetes Australia announced a $250,000 investment in a new Diabetes Technology Research Accelerator Grant, designed to fast-track the development of new diabetes technologies. The program will create evidence-based, real-world solutions for people living with diabetes.

On the back of that announcement was the establishment of the Australian Diabetes Clinical Trials network, a groundbreaking new collaboration with ACADI.

Ms Cain emphasised the significance of these initiatives for diabetes research.

“Diabetes Australia is committed to research, to elevating lived experience voices, and to changing lives,” she said.

The Diabetes Australia Research Program relies on the generosity and support of member organisations, corporates, and individual donors. Find out more about how to support us.

Applications for Diabetes Community Priority Grants will be open until February 2025.

2025 DARP recipients

Recipient	Institute	State	Project Title
Dr Amanda Brandon	The University of Sydney	NSW	The effect of age and sex on metabolic health
Professor Jonathan Gleadle	Flinders University	SA	The Diabetic Kidney: Size Matters
Dr Tanja Jankovic-Karasoulos	Flinders University	SA	Altered placental hormones in response to elevated folic acid: Proposed mechanism for the rise in gestational diabetes in Australia
Dr Lennart Kuck Kellion Diabetes Research Grant	Griffith University	QLD	Red blood cells – the forgotten players driving cardiovascular complications in type 2 diabetes
Associate Professor Costan Magnussen	Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute	VIC	Intersecting Stages: Early-life factors to forecast type 2 diabetes in adulthood
Mrs Simone Marschner	The University of Sydney	NSW	Understanding the link between gestational diabetes and subsequent type 2 diabetes onset: genetic and non-genetic factors
Dr Magdalene Montgomery	University of Melbourne	VIC	Uncovering novel regulators of hepatic glucose metabolism and glycaemic control
Associate Professor Tongzhi Wu	The University of Adelaide	SA	Regulation of glucose homeostasis by renal ‘sweet taste’ sensing in people with type 2 diabetes

2025 Award Recipients

Charles Coghlan OAM Emerging Researcher Award (funded by a bequest to Diabetes Australia and Diabetes Victoria)
Dr Jedidiah Morton
Addressing inequality in type 2 diabetes development, treatment, and outcomes.

Millennium Type 1 Award
Dr Rong Xu
Novel formulation for the treatment of type 1 diabetes

Millennium Type 2 Award
Associate Prof Adam Rose
Role of liver amino acid metabolism in glucagon pharmacotherapies for type 2 diabetes.

Diabetes Australia has announced a new partnership with PDC Health Hub, welcoming the organisation as an Associate Member in a move that will strengthen the voice of the Perth diabetes community at a national level.

The collaboration is a crucial step in bringing together the combined expertise and advocacy of both organisations to improve the lives of people living with diabetes.

The announcement comes at a time when Australia is grappling with the impact of a diabetes epidemic. With 140,000 people in Western Australia living with diabetes and many more at risk, the health, economic, and personal costs of the condition are staggering.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said it is critical for diabetes organisations to work together to effectively address the crisis.

“If we act together, we can make a real difference. We can improve the lives of those living with diabetes, reduce the burden on our healthcare system, and protect future generations from the potential devastating effects of this condition,” she said.

“A recent survey conducted by Diabetes Australia found 60% of people living with diabetes want to be better connected to support. One of the ways we’re doing that is by forming strong local partnerships and creating a united voice.

“PDC Health Hub undertakes outstanding work supporting individuals living with diabetes and improving diabetes care.

“It is an absolute privilege to partner with PDC Health Hub as another important Associate Member of Diabetes Australia. Their efforts are making a real difference in people’s lives,” Ms Cain said.

PDC Health Hub Director Teresa Di Franco said the partnership marks a new chapter in their ongoing work to support the diabetes community.

“We’re proud of the work we do here in Perth and it’s exciting to partner with Diabetes Australia to grow our impact,” she said.

“PDC Health Hub currently supports more than 14,000 people living with all types of diabetes, and we are encouraging all our clients to become members of Diabetes Australia.

“This allows us to ensure our community has both a national voice while being supported locally.

“We look forward to maximising our collective impact through this very exciting partnership.”