芒果直播 has been appointed to deliver the Commonwealth-funded Insulin Pump Program (IPP).

This announcement will see 芒果直播 deliver the program over the next 3 years on behalf of the Australian Government, ensuring continued access to life-changing diabetes technology for eligible young Australians living with type 1 diabetes.

The Insulin Pump Program was established by the Australian Government in 2008 and has been delivered by Breakthrough T1D Australia (formerly JDRF Australia) since its inception. Originally supporting children under 18 facing the greatest financial barriers to accessing insulin pump therapy, the program expanded in 2022 to include eligible young people up to 21 years of age following sustained advocacy by Breakthrough T1D and the type 1 diabetes community.

The program builds on more than 18 years of delivery by Breakthrough T1D Australia, which established and administered the IPP on behalf of the Australian Government from its inception in 2008.

The IPP provides fully subsidised insulin pumps to children and young people under the age of 21 who meet both financial and clinical eligibility criteria.

芒果直播 Group CEO Justine Cain said delivering the IPP further demonstrates the organisation鈥檚 commitment to supporting people living with diabetes.

鈥淎n insulin pump isn鈥檛 just a medical device, it can be a life saver,鈥� she said.

鈥溍⒐辈� is standing on the frontline of technology access by taking on the delivery of the IPP and we鈥檙e committed to doing so in the best interests of people living with diabetes.

鈥淏y removing significant upfront costs, this program improves access to pumps that would otherwise be financially out of reach for many families,鈥� Ms Cain said.

Insulin pump therapy plays a critical role in supporting improved blood glucose management and enhancing quality of life. It reduces the daily burden of diabetes management by minimising the need for multiple daily injections and enabling more flexible routines for children and their families.

鈥淚mportantly, the IPP helps reduce stress for families, allowing them to focus more on their child鈥檚 overall health and wellbeing.

鈥溍⒐辈� will ensure continuity of access for all existing participants throughout the transition period, with no disruption to current support arrangements,鈥� Ms Cain said.

Delivering the IPP reinforces 芒果直播鈥檚 commitment to improving outcomes and access to care for Australians living with diabetes, particularly children and young people who can benefit most from early access to advanced technology.

The program has a limited number of insulin pumps available each year, and meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee that a pump will be available at the time of application.  

Find out more here: /kids-and-teens/insulin-pump-program/

Living with diabetes can increase your risk of stroke and other heart and blood vessel conditions. While this doesn鈥檛 mean you will have a stroke, regular health checks, healthy lifestyle habits, and the right treatment can help reduce your risk. Registered Nurse and Credentialled Diabetes Educator, Carolien Koreneff, explains the key steps you can take to help prevent stroke.

What is a stroke?

A stroke happens when blood cannot reach part of the brain. Brain cells need oxygen and nutrients from blood. Without blood flow, brain cells can be damaged within minutes. There are three different types of stroke:

• Ischaemic stroke: This is the most common type. It happens when a clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain and part of the brain is starved of oxygen
• Haemorrhagic stroke: This happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts, causing a haemorrhage, which is the medical term for a bleed. High blood pressure is a common cause
• Transient ischaemic attack (TIA): This is sometimes called a mini-stroke. If you have a TIA, stroke signs may go away quickly but it is still a medical emergency, as a TIA can be a warning sign that a stroke may happen soon

Why diabetes can raise stroke risk

Over time, glucose levels above your target range can damage blood vessels. Diabetes can also increase the chance of plaque building up inside blood vessels. Plaque is made from cholesterol, other blood fats, and other substances. It can narrow blood vessels and reduce blood flow. If plaque breaks, a clot can form and block blood flow to the brain.

Stroke risk can be higher if you also have blood pressure above your target range, high cholesterol, kidney disease, if you smoke (including vaping), if you have , a family history of heart or blood vessel conditions, or if your weight is affecting your health.

Know the signs: act F.A.S.T.

A stroke is an emergency. The F.A.S.T. test can help you act quickly.

• Face: Check the person鈥檚 face. Has their mouth drooped?
• Arms: Can they lift both arms?
• Speech: Is their speech slurred? Do they understand you?
• Time: If you see any of these signs, call 000 straight away

Other stroke signs can include sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body, sudden trouble seeing, sudden dizziness or loss of balance, trouble swallowing, confusion, or a sudden severe headache. Do not wait to see if signs improve but get medical attention straight away.

How to lower your risk

The best plan is one that is personal to you. Ask your GP or diabetes care team about your heart and stroke risk, your targets, and what actions will help you the most.

• Keep blood glucose levels in your target range: Work with your diabetes team to set targets that are safe for you and review your plan regularly.
• Check blood pressure: Blood pressure above your target range is a major stroke risk. Have it checked regularly (every time you see the doctor) and take medicines as prescribed.
• Manage cholesterol: Ask your doctor if you benefit from taking cholesterol-lowering medicine. Many people living with diabetes benefit from treatment based on their overall heart and stroke risk.
• Do regular physical activity: Aim for about 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days, if this is safe for you. Add strength exercises two to three times a week if you can. Ask your GP for a referral to an exercise physiologist, so they can help you develop an exercise plan that fits in with your lifestyle and any physical issue you may have.
• Eat for heart health: Choose vegetables, fruit, wholegrains, legumes, nuts, seeds, fish, and unsaturated oils. Limit salt, saturated fat, processed meats, sugary drinks, and highly processed foods. Your GP can give you a referral to a dietitian who can assist you with a personalised healthy eating plan.
• Stop smoking: Quitting is one of the strongest ways to lower stroke and heart attack risk. Ask your GP, pharmacist, or call for support.
• Limit alcohol: If you drink alcohol, keep within Australian guidelines. Alcohol can affect your blood glucose levels or medicines. While there is no safe level of drinking, the guidelines help you stay healthy and protect yourself and your family from alcohol harm. It is generally recommended to drink no more than 10 standard drinks per week and no more than 4 standard drinks on any one day. Talk to your health professional for personalised advice.
• Take medicines as prescribed: Blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose-lowering, and blood-thinning medicines may lower risk for some people. Speak with your health professional before stopping or changing medicines.
• Keep your annual cycle of care up to date: Regular checks can find changes early and help prevent complications.

When to get help

Call 000 immediately if you notice any stroke signs, even if they are mild or go away. Quick treatment can save brain tissue and reduce long-term effects, including permanent disability.

Book an appointment with your GP or diabetes care team if you are unsure about your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose targets, medicines, smoking, activity, food choices, or your overall heart and stroke risk.

Key message

People living with diabetes have a higher risk of stroke, but many risk factors can be reduced. The most important steps are to know the F.A.S.T. signs, call 000 for any stroke symptoms, and work with your health team to manage blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose levels, smoking, physical activity, food choices, and regular health checks.

The safety of people living with diabetes must always come first. For many Australians, technologies such as insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors are essential tools that help prevent dangerous high and low blood glucose levels, reduce the daily burden of living with diabetes and improve long-term health outcomes. For some individuals they can be life-changing or even life-saving.

People living with diabetes need access to balanced, evidence-based information so they can make informed decisions in consultation with their healthcare professionals. When public discussions focus solely on potential risks without also explaining proven benefits, there is a risk that individuals may lose confidence in technologies recommended by their healthcare team that could improve their health outcomes. Informed decisions are best made when people understand both the risks and benefits.

People living with diabetes deserve safe, well-regulated technologies, robust oversight when issues arise, and public conversations that accurately reflect both the risks and the substantial benefits of these important medical devices.

芒果直播 supports rigorous regulation, monitoring and oversight of all medical devices used in Australia. An individual or a healthcare professional can report adverse events to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Any adverse event involving a medical device is concerning and should be thoroughly investigated.

People living with diabetes can benefit greatly from diabetes technologies and rightly expect that those available in Australia meet appropriate quality, safety and regulatory standards, and that regulators, manufacturers and healthcare professionals work together to continuously improve patient safety.

Diabetes affects around two million Australians and can cause serious complications including cardiovascular disease, stroke, kidney disease, vision loss and amputation. Many of these complications can be delayed or prevented through person-centred diabetes management, appropriate healthcare and access to evidence-based treatments and technologies.

There is a substantial body of Australian and international evidence showing that diabetes technologies, including continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps and automated insulin delivery systems, can improve health outcomes, reduce serious complications, help keep people out of hospital and improve quality of life. For many Australians, these technologies have been transformational, helping people achieve better glucose management, reduce the daily burden of diabetes and live longer, healthier lives.

Diabetes technologies are not immune from potential failure. For this reason, it is essential that people using them have an individualised back-up plan in place and know what steps to take if a device is not working as expected. That plan should be developed with a diabetes care team.

Anyone experiencing difficulties with their diabetes technology should contact the device manufacturer, and seek advice from their healthcare professional, as soon as possible.

Public discussion of medical technologies plays an important role in maintaining confidence in our health system and ensuring that safety concerns are identified and addressed. It is equally important that these discussions reflect the full picture. Alongside legitimate concerns about adverse events, Australians should also understand the significant benefits that these technologies provide to many people living with diabetes every day.

As the national peak body representing Australians living with diabetes, 芒果直播’s advocacy and policy positions are formed independently and are informed by evidence, expert clinical advice and the lived experience of people living with diabetes. Everything we do is guided by one priority: improving the health, safety and wellbeing of the community we serve.

Informed choice matters. Safety matters. Evidence matters.

Justine Cain
Group Chief Executive Officer
芒果直播

For more information about evidence based clinical guidelines for diabetes   for Medical device technology for the management of type 1 diabetes have been developed by the Living Evidence for Diabetes Consortium, which is a collaboration between the Australian Diabetes Society (ADS), 芒果直播 (DA), the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) and the Australasian Paediatric Endocrine Group (APEG), with representation from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), the Australian Government Department of Health and Cochrane Australia.

People living with type 2 diabetes who use Daonil are encouraged to speak with their doctor or diabetes healthcare team following confirmation that the medicine will be discontinued in Australia.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has advised that Daonil (glibenclamide) 5 mg tablets will be from the Australian market from 30 November 2026. The sponsor, Sanofi-Aventis Australia, said that the discontinuation is due to commercial viability considerations.

Daonil is a sulfonylurea medicine used to treat type 2 diabetes. While it remains an effective treatment option for some people, prescribing has declined over time with the introduction of newer medicines, including SGLT2 inhibitors, DPP-4 inhibitors and GLP-1 receptor agonists.

Anyone currently taking Daonil should make an appointment with their doctor or diabetes healthcare team well before November 2026 to discuss suitable alternative treatment options based on their individual circumstances.

Other sulfonylurea medicines, including gliclazide, glimepiride and glipizide, remain available in Australia.

芒果直播 has welcomed the Australian Government鈥檚 decision to list Tresiba Penfill (insulin degludec) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for people living with type 1 diabetes, effective 1 July 2026. 

Tresiba is an ultra-long acting, once-daily basal insulin indicated for adults, adolescents and children from the age of one year who are living with type 1 diabetes. The PBS listing will improve affordability and access to this important treatment option. 

芒果直播鈥檚 Group CEO Justine Cain said the listing is a positive step forward in supporting people with type 1 diabetes to better manage their condition. 

鈥淭his important PBS listing聽will help reduce the cost burden for people living with type 1 diabetes and聽聽 increase the choices available for managing the condition,鈥澛燤s Cain聽said.聽

鈥淭his listing will support healthcare professionals to individualise basal insulin therapy based on a person鈥檚 clinical needs, preferences and lifestyle.鈥� 

“Individualised care is essential for achieving optimal outcomes and improving quality of life for people living with diabetes.鈥� 

芒果直播 emphasised that access to affordable medicines remains a key priority, particularly for people requiring lifelong insulin therapy. 

鈥淢anaging type 1 diabetes is complex and demands constant attention. Ensuring equitable access to a range of effective treatments helps people live well with diabetes,鈥� Ms Cain said. 

Further information on the listing will be available on the PBS website from 1 July 2026 at www.pbs.gov.au. 

When winter rolls around, many of us are tempted to stay warm under a doona with a hot cup of tea and a book. But for people living with diabetes, staying active through the colder months is one of the best things you can do for your health. And what better way to move your body than a good bushwalk?

Winter is a great time of the year to go hiking because the weather is milder, it鈥檚 generally quieter, and there鈥檚 plenty of nature to enjoy, including (depending on where you live) the chance to spot migrating whales. Exercising also boosts your immune system and helps fight off colds and illnesses that are often circulating at much higher rates in the colder months.

Seven reasons to hit the trail this winter

1. Cooler weather, steadier glucose
   Winter walking means you鈥檙e less likely to overheat which can make it easier to regulate your glucose levels (BGLs) However, it is still important to monitor closely as exercise will impact your levels.
2. Flowers and fungi for the mind
   Winter brings blooming wattles and colourful fungi across Australia鈥檚 bushland. Take the time to slow down on your hike and focus on nature. In Japan the practice of shinrin-yoku (roughly translated to forest bathing) has become an important part of preventative healthcare. It involves spending time in nature to promote physical and mental wellbeing. Results from Japanese studies have shown forest bathing improves sleep quality, mood, ability to focus, and stress levels. A win for mental health and diabetes alike.
3. Fewer tourists, more peace
   Less foot traffic means you can focus on the walk, your breath, and your body鈥檚 signals. This is especially helpful when you鈥檙e monitoring energy and glucose levels along the way.
4. Whale watching
   From May to November, whales, migrate north along the east coast of Australia. It is a great time to hike to a prime viewing spot to look for humpback whales and dolphins. Bring binoculars and take regular breaks to rest, rehydrate, and check your glucose levels.
5. Less bugs (and snakes)
   Winter鈥檚 cooler temps mean fewer ticks, mosquitoes, and snakes, ideal for walkers wary of bites or infection risks that could complicate diabetes care.
6. Lower bushfire risk
   Winter reduces the threat of fire danger, especially on longer bush trails. Always check alerts and stay on marked paths, especially near cliffs, streams or remote areas.
7. You burn more energy
   Your body works harder in the cold, meaning winter walks can help with weight management and insulin sensitivity. It鈥檚 an easy, low-impact way to support your overall diabetes care.

Living with diabetes adds a layer of planning to any adventure, but it shouldn鈥檛 stop you.

Getting started

Before starting any new exercise or activity program, check with your doctor to make sure it is suitable for you. If you are on insulin or other glucose lowering medications, you may need to take special precautions when exercising to prevent your glucose level from dropping too low. If you have peripheral neuropathy, or nerve damage in your feet, it is important to talk to your diabetes health professionals before beginning or increasing exercise. This reduces the risk of ulcers and other diabetes-related complications.

If you experience chest pain, unusual breathlessness, nausea, dizziness, severe muscular or joint pain consult your doctor immediately.

The following websites are good resources when looking to find hiking trails or easy walking routes near you.

• : filter by difficulty and read user reviews.
• : curated walking guides and maps.
• for blogs, forums and meet-ups
• Check the websites of local parks and state National Parks for updates and trail information.

Tips for managing diabetes on a hike

Medications
Hiking can affect your insulin needs due to increased energy use, weather, and food intake. Monitor your levels closely, before, during, and after hikes, and before bed. Carry quick-access hypo treatments such as , which are light and easy to digest.

Foot care
Well-fitting boots are key to avoiding blisters. You want to ensure that the boot鈥檚 heel sits snug to the rear of your foot, while giving your toes some wiggle room. If your foot is moving around too much, either front to back or side to side, you鈥檒l have friction, which leads to blisters.

Shop for boots in the evening when feet are swollen and wear your hiking socks during fitting. Break in new boots gradually, start with short walks before tackling longer hikes.

Socks
Aim for good-quality in a synthetic/cotton or wool blend. A lot of hikers recommend a two-sock system. The first sock is a thin, skin-tight moisture-wicking type. The second pair is a thicker, wool or wool-mix hikers sock.

Blisters
Apply Band-Aids in advance to areas that you know from past walks are prone to blisters.If you feel a hot spot on your foot, stop walking immediately. Cover the spot with two to three layers of elasticated tape, such as Fixomull (available in pharmacies).Put a thin layer of Hiker鈥檚 Wool (available online) on a hot spot and your sock will hold it in place. If a blister deteriorates, apply some Second Skin (available in pharmacies). It can be a good idea to change sock changes during the day to limit moisture as keeping your feet dry will reduce the likelihood of friction blisters.

Stretch
Stretch your feet before, during and after a day鈥檚 hike to loosen to loosen up the muscles and avoid foot cramps, aches and pains.

Sun and insect protection
Even if the day seems cloudy or the temperature is cool, sunburn can still occur. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen and an SPF lip balm and remember to re-apply. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your face and neck, and opt for clothing made with sun-protective fabric.

Spray insect repellent on your boots and ankles to prevent leeches latching on. If you find a leech, spray or rub insect repellent or sunscreen on it and it will drop off.

Hydration
Everyone has different hydration needs, but it is important to have plenty of water with you. Drink small amounts of water frequently on your walks to avoid dehydration, and remember that you will drink more water on warmer days. Some people like to carry electrolyte drinks on a hike but speak with a dietitian about whether they are appropriate for you as they contain salt.

Hiking poles
Using poles while hiking is a personal choice. Hiking poles are great for balance, stability, taking pressure off sore knees and supporting injuries. Trekking can place stress on your hips, ankles, knee joints and leg muscles, and using poles can reduce the impact on these areas of the body.

Tell someone
Let a friend know your plans and when to expect you back, especially when walking alone.

Don鈥檛 let diabetes, or the colder weather, keep you inside. Whether it鈥檚 a coastal stroll or a gentle bushwalk, winter is the perfect time to lace up your boots, manage your health, and embrace the joy of walking wild.

People using YpsoPump Orbit Micro 2.0 infusion sets are being advised of a product update designed to improve comfort and reduce the likelihood of skin irritation. 

The update applies to YpsoPump Orbit Micro 2.0 infusion sets supplied in Australia since October 2023. The products are not being recalled and remain safe to use. 

The change follows routine post-market monitoring, which identified a higher frequency of reported skin irritation among some users. Skin irritation is recognised as a possible reaction when using infusion sets, and guidance recommended rotating infusion sites or considering alternative sets if irritation occurs. 

A detailed review found that the design of the Orbit Micro 2.0 infusion set base and its welding structure could create a slightly rough surface where the device contacts the skin. Over time, and with the need to replace the base every 48 hours, this may contribute to mechanical irritation of the skin. 

In response, the manufacturer, mylife Diabetes Care Australia, has updated the design and production process to create a smoother skin-contact surface. Testing has shown this refinement significantly reduces mechanically induced skin irritation, without changing the materials used in the product. 

The updated infusion sets are now being introduced through normal pharmacy and wholesale supply channels in Australia. No action is required for people currently using the device. 

Those using mylife Loop systems that rely on Orbit Micro 2.0 infusion sets should simply be aware of the update as new stock becomes available.  

Individuals who have experienced skin irritation with earlier versions may wish to speak with their healthcare team or contact mylife Diabetes Care Australia customer support on 1800 447 042 to access the updated product. 

The Urgent Product Correction information has been published on the TGA website:  

When blood glucose levels run high, people often assume it must be related to food choices, missed medication, or lack of exercise. While these are common causes, there are many other factors that can influence blood glucose levels.

Diabetes education programs emphasise that glucose levels are affected by a range of everyday factors including hormones, stress, illness, sleep, and hydration. This is why people sometimes see higher readings even when they feel they have done everything 鈥渞ight鈥�.聽Understanding these less obvious influences can help explain unexpected glucose readings and support better diabetes management.

Below are five less common reasons your glucose levels may be higher than expected.

1. Stress and emotional pressure

Stress can have a significant impact on blood glucose levels. When the body experiences stress, whether emotional, physical, or psychological, it releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.  These hormones trigger the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream as part of the body鈥檚 natural 鈥渇ight or flight鈥� response. While this response is helpful in emergency situations, it can raise blood glucose levels in people living with diabetes.

Stress may come from many sources including work pressures, family responsibilities, illness, financial concerns, or even the ongoing demands of managing diabetes itself.聽Developing strategies to manage stress may help reduce this effect. Activities such as walking, meditation, breathing exercises, or spending time outdoors may help lower stress levels and support overall wellbeing.

Recognising the relationship between stress and glucose levels can also make unexpected readings feel less confusing or discouraging.

2. Poor sleep

Sleep plays an important role in regulating hormones that influence glucose metabolism.聽When sleep is disrupted or shortened, the body may become more resistant to insulin. This means glucose remains in the bloodstream for longer rather than moving into the cells where it is used for energy.聽 Sleep deprivation may also increase hunger hormones, making people more likely to feel hungry and crave high-energy foods.

Many adults benefit from seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Maintaining consistent sleep routines, limiting screen exposure before bedtime, and creating a comfortable sleep environment may help improve sleep quality. If poor sleep is ongoing, discussing this with a healthcare professional may be helpful as sleep quality can significantly influence diabetes management.

3. Dehydration

Hydration is another factor that can affect glucose levels but is often overlooked.聽When the body becomes dehydrated, the amount of fluid in the bloodstream decreases. This can lead to a higher concentration of glucose in the blood.

High glucose levels themselves can also increase urination, which may further contribute to dehydration. This creates a cycle where dehydration and elevated glucose levels reinforce each other.  Drinking water regularly throughout the day can help support hydration and overall body function. Maintaining adequate fluid intake may be especially important during hot weather, illness, or increased physical activity.

4. Hormonal changes and the dawn phenomenon

Some people notice their glucose levels rise in the early morning even though they have not eaten overnight. This pattern is known as the dawn phenomenon.聽In the early morning hours, the body releases hormones such as cortisol and growth hormones to prepare for waking. These hormones stimulate the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream.

In people without diabetes, the body typically produces additional insulin to balance this effect. However, in people with diabetes this response may not occur, leading to higher morning glucose levels.聽Hormonal changes during puberty, menstrual cycles, pregnancy, or ageing can also influence insulin sensitivity and glucose patterns.

Identifying patterns in glucose readings may help determine whether hormonal changes are contributing to higher levels. 

5. Illness or infection

When the body is fighting illness or infection, glucose levels may increase even if a person is eating less than usual.聽During illness the body releases stress hormones that increase glucose production to provide energy for the immune system. As a result, glucose levels may rise despite reduced food intake.

When you are living with diabetes, monitoring glucose levels more frequently during illness can help identify changes early. Staying hydrated and following individual sick-day management plans may help manage glucose during these periods. If glucose levels remain very high or symptoms worsen, medical advice should be sought.

Blood glucose levels are influenced by far more than food alone. Stress, sleep, hydration, hormones, illness, medications, and daily routines can all affect how the body regulates glucose. Recognising these factors can help people understand unexpected readings and make informed decisions about their diabetes management.

Monitoring patterns over time and discussing concerns with healthcare professionals such as doctors, diabetes educators, or dietitians can help identify underlying causes and guide appropriate adjustments. Understanding the many factors that influence glucose levels can make diabetes management feel less frustrating and help you respond more confidently when their readings change.

By Robbie Tyson, Credentialled Diabetes Educator

Federal Minister for Health and Ageing Mark Butler will deliver the keynote address at the National Diabetes Summit on 31 March at Parliament House in Canberra.

The Summit will provide a platform for collaboration and innovation, exploring strategies to improve outcomes for people living with diabetes while strengthening Australia鈥檚 health system.

Minister Butler will be joined at the Summit by experts and leaders from across the health sector, including senior representatives of the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing.

Penny Shakespeare, Deputy Secretary for Health Resourcing, will provide the Summit鈥檚 opening address, and Duncan McIntyre, First Assistant Secretary, Technology Assessment and Access, will contribute to a key panel discussion on Australia鈥檚 diabetes landscape.

The National Diabetes Summit will bring together leaders across diabetes, health, research, policy and advocacy to address the increasing impact of diabetes on Australians and accelerate practical solutions to one of the nation鈥檚 most pressing health challenges.

芒果直播 Group CEO Justine Cain welcomed Minister Butler鈥檚 participation in the Summit and recognised the Federal Government鈥檚 commitment to the diabetes community.

鈥淲e are delighted that Minister Butler will deliver the keynote address and that senior leaders from the Department of Health, Disability and Ageing will also contribute to this important national conversation,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淭his Summit is an opportunity for direct dialogue at the heart of government about one of the most urgent and complex health challenges facing Australia.

鈥淭he importance of investing in preventive health; the urgency of the diabetes crisis in Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander communities; the need for affordable access to diabetes technologies 鈥� these are all issues that will be canvassed at the Summit and we appreciate the willingness of the Minister and the department to engage in these important topics,鈥� she said.

This event is hosted by 芒果直播, in partnership with Marion Scrymgour MP, Member for Lingiari, and Melissa McIntosh MP, Member for Lindsay, the co-chairs of the Parliamentary Friends for the Prevention of Diabetes group.

鈥淲e鈥檙e so grateful for the support of the Parliamentary Friends group. As co-chairs, the Member for Lingiari and the Member for Lindsay have been invaluable in helping to coordinate this Summit,鈥� Ms Cain said.

Summit participants will include people living with diabetes, health leaders, policymakers, clinicians, researchers and advocates, creating a unique opportunity for cross sector dialogue that connects lived experience with national decision making.

Following the summit an Exhibition and Networking Reception will showcase the latest technologies, services, treatments and research advancing diabetes prevention and management across Australia.

About 芒果直播鈥��

芒果直播 is the national peak body supporting people living with, and at risk of, diabetes.鈥疻e are leading the national response to Australia’s largest health crisis, working in collaboration with people with lived experience, member organisations, peak bodies, health professionals, state-based organisations,鈥痳esearchers鈥痑nd the community.鈥疧ur work focuses on supporting people with diabetes to live well, providing information, resources, and support services, as well as investing in prevention, and reducing the impact of diabetes on people, health鈥痵ystems鈥痑nd society. We advocate for positive change that will create a healthier future for everyone.鈥�����

For information: Monica Rostron, 芒果直播 鈥� 0409 126 332聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽聽 mrostron@diabetesaustralia.com.au

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) has recommended Wegovy (semaglutide) be subsidised through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for adults with established cardiovascular disease and obesity.  

芒果直播鈥檚 Group CEO Justine Cain has welcomed the recommendation and comments from Federal Health Minister Mark Butler indicating the government would work with manufacturer Novo Nordisk to list the medication, making it more affordable for Australians.  

鈥淪upporting individuals who want to lose weight is an important part of type 2 diabetes prevention, and ensuring the affordability of medicines that help people achieve that goal is critical.  

鈥淭here are many factors that contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes including genetics or family history, but in 58% of cases it can be prevented or delayed. Supporting Australians with affordable access to weight loss medicines is one of the tools that can help with this,鈥� Ms Cain said. 

The published聽recommendation聽states聽that the subsidy should be provided聽鈥渇or adults with established cardiovascular disease (eCVD) with obesity. Patients must have already experienced a cardiovascular event such as a heart attack, stroke, or have symptomatic peripheral arterial disease.鈥澛�

The Diabetes Alliance*, led by 芒果直播, made a joint submission to PBAC鈥檚 November 2025 meeting regarding the importance of access to GLP-1 RA medicines (such as semaglutide) for the treatment of obesity, due to the increased risk of chronic conditions including type 2 diabetes and heart disease.  

鈥淚t鈥檚 excellent to see the advice of the sector being positively received,鈥� Ms Cain said. 

鈥淭his separate recommendation about Wegovy is a helpful step in the management of obesity and ongoing efforts to reduce the rates of chronic conditions in Australia.鈥� 

Over 1.3 million Australians are living with type 2 diabetes and another 2 million are at risk of developing the chronic condition.  

* The Diabetes Alliance includes 芒果直播, the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, the Australian Diabetes Society, Breakthrough T1D, the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society, and the Australian and New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes.