A free community event helping Central West communities learn more about diabetes, reduce their risk, and take positive steps towards better health.

芒果直播 is proud to be partnering with Triple M Central West on , a community health event designed to bring people together to learn more about diabetes, understand their personal risk, and access trusted health information in a welcoming and supportive environment.

The event is part of our broader partnership with Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) through its flagship charity program, SCA Embrace, which helps amplify important conversations about diabetes and connect more Australians with accurate information and support.

Whether you’re living with diabetes, supporting a loved one, concerned about your risk, or simply interested in learning more about healthy living, this event offers an opportunity to hear from experts, ask questions, and connect with others in your community.

Why attend?

Diabetes affects millions of Australians, with that number growing every day. In fact, every five minutes someone in Australia is diagnosed with the condition. Increasing awareness of diabetes risk factors, symptoms, prevention, and management is critical to improving health outcomes and helping people live well.

At The Diabetes Connection, attendees will:

1. Hear from a Registered Nurse and Credentialled Diabetes Educator for an engaging Q&A session
2. Learn more about diabetes risk factors, prevention, and everyday management
3. Access practical information and tools to support your health journey
4. Connect with local health and wellbeing organisations
5. Plus, lots more

A partnership creating healthier communities

Through 芒果直播’s partnership with SCA and the Triple M network, we’re reaching more Australians with trusted information about diabetes and helping communities take action earlier. Together, we’re working to improve understanding of diabetes, reduce stigma, and ensure people have access to the support and information they need.

Events like The Diabetes Connection play an important role in bringing these conversations directly into local communities, making it easier for people to learn about their health and take positive steps towards prevention and management.

Event details

Date: Thursday 13 August 2026

Time: 9am 鈥� 12pm

Location: Orange

Attendance: Limited to 80 guests

Register your interest

Places are limited, so we encourage community members to register their interest as soon as possible. We look forward to seeing you in Orange!

To learn more about the 芒果直播 and SCA partnership, click here.

It鈥檚 no secret that eating foods that are high in unhealthy fats, salt and sugar may be harmful to our health. It can also increase the risk for some chronic conditions such as . The latest research shows that regularly eating ultra-processed food could increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 53% ^(1-4).

The  recommend limiting intakes of foods containing saturated fat, added salt, and added sugars (e.g., chips, lollies, chocolate, pizza, soft drinks, and alcohol) to 鈥渙nly sometimes and in small amounts鈥�. The most recent  found Australians consumed over a third (35%) of their total energy (kilojoules) intake from 鈥渟ometimes鈥� foods, most of which are ultra-processed.

For people living with diabetes, navigating this food environment can be especially challenging. The cost of living with diabetes is already high, and no one should be further burdened by the rising cost of good healthcare. The good news is that small, realistic changes to your eating habits can make a meaningful difference to your health without increasing your food budget, and there are simple ways to get started.

So, what exactly are ultra-processed foods, and how can we reduce our intake?

What are ultra-processed foods and how are they categorised?

Not all processed foods are harmful to health. Instead, they sit on a continuum from unprocessed/minimally processed to ultra-processed.

The art of processing foods is not new. Humans have been doing it for centuries. From cooking raw flesh over open fires to grinding wheat to make flour. Even bottling and preserving fruits and vegetables are forms of food processing.

The process of adding salt and sugar or heating and grinding foods helps extend shelf life. It also makes the food more nutritious and safer to eat. However, in recent times, food processing has taken on a new form. New technology has been created which combines foods with cheap, nutrient-poor ingredients such as additives, flavours, and colours. Such innovation results in highly edible, attractive, and convenient ultra-processed foods. The term “ultra-processed foods” (UPFs) was coined by researcher Dr Carlos Monteiro over a decade ago, when he developed the slightly controversial ¹. Four studies using the NOVA classification system showed that the risk of developing type 2 diabetes could increase by 53% if ultra-processed foods were regularly consumed^(1-4). The NOVA classification system groups foods into four categories based on the degree of processing. The four groups are outlined below:

#1 Unprocessed or minimally processed foods

This includes foods that have been frozen, washed, or pasteurised. Food examples include washed and bagged salads, frozen fruit, and plain milk

#2 Processed culinary ingredients

Such as pressing, grinding, or milling of foods. Examples of food include oils, seeds, nuts, and sugar.

#3 Processed foods

These are foods from either of the first two groups with the addition of salt, sugar, or fat. Food examples include canned fish, some types of bread, and cheeses.

#4 Ultra-processed foods

These foods have undergone extensive processing and include chemicals such as artificial sweeteners, colours, and flavours. They are usually ready-to-eat and don鈥檛 need much preparation, such as soft drinks, cakes, biscuits, ice creams, chips and frozen meals including pizzas, pasta dishes, sausage rolls, nuggets, and pies.

Why does processing matter?

One key difference is how processing affects the structure of food. For example, whole grains like oats or brown rice contain a protective outer layer (bran), which provides fibre and helps keep the glycaemic index (GI) lower. When grains are heavily milled or refined鈥攁s in instant porridge sachets or quick-cook white rice鈥攖his structure is broken down. This results in faster digestion, higher blood glucose spikes, and reduced satiety.

How does processed food affect diabetes?

High intakes of ultra-processed foods have been linked to several factors that may affect diabetes management. This includes consuming more energy (kilojoules or calories) and larger quantities of high-glycaemic index (GI) foods.

A  found that for every 10% increase in energy per day eaten from ultra-processed foods, there was a 15% increase in the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

If you already have diabetes, excess energy intake can result in an increased waistline and higher insulin resistance. This may mean an increase in medications. It may also increase the risk of long-term diabetes-related complications.

Blood glucose levels

Many ultra-processed foods are low in fibre and high in added sugars. This means they are rapidly digested, raising blood glucose levels quickly. These types of foods have a high glycemic index (GI), which is known to spike blood glucose levels. In contrast, whole or minimally processed foods, particularly those rich in fibre and protein, are more filling (increase satiety) and help stabilise blood glucose levels.

Making healthier food choices doesn鈥檛 have to be overwhelming; even small, achievable changes can support better blood glucose management, and there are practical steps you can take today.

A balanced approach: what to eat more of

Rather than focusing only on cutting out ultra-processed foods, a more practical and positive approach is to add more whole, nutrient-dense foods to your diet.

Aim to include more:

• Vegetables and fruit
• Wholegrains (e.g. oats, brown rice, wholegrain bread)
• Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
• Dairy or alternatives
• Lean protein sources (meat, eggs, poultry, fish, tofu)

Foods that are higher in protein and fibre can help you feel fuller for longer, which may naturally reduce the need for convenience foods and frequent snacking.

Tips to reduce your consumption of ultra-processed foods

1. Reduce temptation and availability 

Out of sight, out of mind! Avoid stocking ultra-processed foods such as cakes, chips, or biscuits in your pantry. Try grocery shopping online, so you are less likely to be tempted by treats and impulse buys. If you go in-store to shop, keep to the outer edges of the supermarket as much as possible, where you will find more fresh foods. The inner aisles of the supermarket are where you will find ultra-processed foods. It is also a good idea to avoid shopping when hungry. This will reduce the temptation of buying treat foods that even appear at the checkout.

2. Be prepared and plan meals

Set aside 20 to 30 minutes on your weekend to plan your meals and shopping list for the week. Taking time to plan your meals will save you money and reduce the number of trips to the supermarket. It will also decrease the likelihood of reaching for ultra-processed ready meals when you get to that 鈥�5pm panic鈥�.

If you鈥檙e stuck for meal ideas, look at the  fact sheet. It is full of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack options. If you鈥檙e stuck for recipe ideas, look at the great selection of recipes from 芒果直播.

3. Save time by doubling the recipe

This will cut down the number of times you have to prepare meals during the busy week. Healthy lasagnes, casseroles, and soups make easy, nutritious meals. They are also easy to double quantities and freeze leftovers for another meal.

4. Choose wholegrains where possible

Choose grainy products, such as bread and crackers, instead of wholemeal or white varieties. You can check the of carbohydrate-containing foods using the on the 鈥檚 website, allowing you to find alternatives for your carb intake. 

5. Get savvy with food labels

Food manufacturers are not required to label their food as ultra-processed, but they must list the ingredients used to make that food. Look at the ingredients list to work out whether a product is ultra-processed. Ultra-processed foods usually have five or more ingredients, many of which are not found in a normal kitchen. Examples include monosodium glutamate, soy lecithin, or inverted syrup, just to name a few. Read  for more information.

For more tips about eating well, be sure to check out our Healthy Living section.

Take the next step toward a healthier you

If you鈥檙e looking to reduce your intake of ultra-processed foods or want support in making healthier everyday choices, you don鈥檛 have to do it alone. Small changes make a meaningful difference, and having the right guidance can help you stay on track.

1800PREVENT (1800 773 8368) is your free, national type 2 diabetes prevention information service, connecting you with trusted support that鈥檚 right for you. We鈥檒l help link you to online resources, prevention programs, health coaching, or other local services that can support your health journey. 

Take home messages

• There are four types of processed food categories according to the NOVA classification system. These include minimally/unprocessed, processed culinary, processed, and ultra-processed.
• Research has shown that regularly eating ultra-processed food could increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 53%^(1-4).
• The art of food processing has been around for centuries. It extends shelf life and makes food safer and more nutritious.
• Australians are consuming too many ultra-processed foods in their diets.
• Reducing consumption of ultra-processed foods can lead to better blood glucose management and reduced risk of diabetes-related complications.
• Eat a diet comprised of mostly minimally processed, whole foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables, fresh meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood, and low-GI wholegrains.
• Consider ultra-processed foods as 鈥榮ometimes鈥� foods, only to be eaten in small amounts, and in moderation.
• There are several helpful resources to help you reduce your ultra-processed food intake listed below.

Where can I get more information?

• Become a FREE member of Diabetes YOUnited. You will be provided with regular news and updates, evidence-based, practical information from health professionals, and support every step of the way.

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References

1. Levy RB, Rauber F, Chang K, Louzada M, Monteiro CA, Millett C, et al. Ultra-processed food consumption and type 2 diabetes incidence: A prospective cohort study. Clin Nutr. 2021;40(5):3608-14.
2. Llavero-Valero M, Escalada-San Martin J, Martinez-Gonzalez MA, Basterra-Gortari FJ, de la Fuente-Arrillaga C, Bes-Rastrollo M. Ultra-processed foods and type-2 diabetes risk in the SUN project: A prospective cohort study. Clin Nutr. 2021;40(5):2817-24.
3. Srour B, Fezeu LK, Kesse-Guyot E, Alles B, Debras C, Druesne-Pecollo N, et al. Ultraprocessed Food Consumption and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Among Participants of the NutriNet-Sante Prospective Cohort. JAMA Intern Med. 2020;180(2):283-91.
4. Delpino FM, Figueiredo LM, Bielemann RM, da Silva BGC, Dos Santos FS, Mintem GC, et al. Ultra-processed food and risk of type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. Int J Epidemiol. 2022;51(4):1120-41.
5. Moradi S, Hojjati Kermani MA, Bagheri R, Mohammadi H, Jayedi A, Lane MM, et al. Ultra-Processed Food Consumption and Adult Diabetes Risk: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2021;13(12).
6. Machado PP, Steele EM, Levy RB, Sui Z, Rangan A, Woods J, et al. Ultra-processed foods and recommended intake levels of nutrients linked to non-communicable diseases in Australia: evidence from a nationally representative cross-sectional study. BMJ Open. 2019;9(8):e029544.

Notes

¹While widely used in research, it鈥檚 worth noting that the NOVA system has some limitations, as it classifies foods based on processing rather than nutritional value alone. For this reason, it鈥檚 helpful to focus not just on processing, but also on nutrient density鈥攖hat is, how much fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals a food provides.

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By Rebecca McPhee, Accredited Practising Dietitian, and Libby Evans, MSc Human Nutrition

This article has been reviewed by 芒果直播 Health Professional Advisory Council (HPAC)

This blog was originally published 3 September 2022.

Shoppers at selected Target stores in South Australia can now take five from checking out the latest fashion fits to check in on their health, thanks to a pilot partnership between the retailer, 芒果直播, and SiSU Health.  

The partnership will see 10 SiSU Health Check stations deployed across selected Target stores in South Australia, where shoppers can check a range of health markers such as blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight, body composition, and risk of developing type 2 diabetes (against AUSDRISK criteria), all discreetly delivered directly by secure app.  

Health Check stations are self-serve TGA-registered medical devices that can provide validated screening results in minutes, which can give baseline health data and support conversations with health professionals.   

The initiative aims to encourage early screening for a range of common health markers that could help people catch their risk of chronic conditions sooner.  

Currently, just over 121,000 South Australians live with all types of diabetes, with a further 34,000 estimated to be living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Nationally, 2 million Australians are living with diabetes.  

Diabetes Australia鈥檚 Group CEO Justine Cain said the initiative was an important step forward in exploring new ways to make preventive health more accessible to the community.  

鈥淲ith this partnership there鈥檚 no need for people to 鈥榮hop around鈥� for good health 鈥� now they can check their risk while at Target checking the latest fashion,鈥� Ms Cain said.   

鈥淎 five-minute health check could be the best thing you put in your shopping basket today. 

鈥淢illions of Australians are either living with or at risk of type 2 diabetes, and many don鈥檛 realise it.  By partnering with a trusted brand like Target, we have a powerful opportunity to reach people earlier. Early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have to help people take control of their health.鈥� 

Ms Cain said the partnership reflects 芒果直播鈥檚 commitment to innovative approaches to prevention.  

鈥淲e know that when health checks are easy, accessible and stigma free, more people engage. These health stations at Target stores provide a simple way for people to learn their risk, track their results, and, if needed, seek support early through their GP or health professional. Small steps like this can make a big difference.鈥� 

Target will host the health stations in 10 participating stores, as part of the pilot, providing customers with a convenient five-minute check while they shop.  

Kmart Group (Kmart and Target) Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer Alexandra Staley said Target is proud to partner with 芒果直播 to bring accessible health solutions into everyday retail environments.  

鈥淎t Target, we鈥檙e committed to supporting our local communities. By hosting these health stations in our stores, we鈥檙e helping make it easier for customers to access simple, free health checks as part of their everyday routines.鈥�  

鈥淭his pilot reflects our broader focus on creating positive community impact 鈥� using our national store network to help explore ways to remove barriers to early detection and support better health outcomes for Australians.鈥�  

The health checks have already proven successful in other settings, with thousands of Australians using SiSU Health Stations each year to proactively monitor their health.  

SiSU聽Health Check machines are available now in Target Australia locations across South Australia. Participating stores include: Centrepoint (Adelaide CBD), Sefton Park, Edwardstown, Newton, Marion, Tea Tree Plaza, West Lakes, Hollywood Plaza, Elizabeth, Reynella.聽聽

The scorecard from the 2025 Boxing Day Test health checks is in, with more than 7,400 Shane Warne Legacy Health Checks resulting in over one third of participants being encouraged to see their GP for a follow-up discussion.  

The off-field findings highlight the importance of preventative screening, as more than a quarter of those encouraged to see their GP were prompted because of type 2 diabetes risk.

芒果直播 Group CEO Justine Cain said identifying people at risk of type 2 diabetes early is critically important.

鈥淭he great thing about the SWL Health Checks is that they are free, quick and self-serve, and can help start a conversation with a health professional,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淲hile not all diabetes can be prevented, we know that 58 percent of type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented or delayed. For that to happen, we need to reach people who are at risk, and at this year鈥檚 Test we鈥檝e done that for thousands of individuals.

鈥淪hane was a beloved figure not just in Australian sports but as an iconic personality with a passion for community. 芒果直播 is proud to partner with SWL to encourage greater diabetes awareness and screening,鈥� she said.

The Shane Warne Legacy CEO Helen Nolan said 鈥渨e鈥檙e learning so much at the Legacy, but one lesson keeps coming back to me: our bodies talk to us. Through ways we can easily brush off as nothing.

鈥淚n early February 2022 Shane said to me, 鈥楩or the first time in my life I feel exhausted. I need a proper break. Three months. Is there a way?鈥�

鈥淚 had never heard him say that before. So, I cleared his schedule. Declined invitations. Moved commitments. Blocked out three full months. He was on Day 1 of that break.

鈥淎nd contrary to what was reported, he wasn鈥檛 seeing a heart specialist or any doctor. He had no idea what was about to unfold.

鈥淚t鈥檚 such a simple lesson, but I think about it every day: when your body speaks, listen.

鈥淭hat鈥檚 exactly why the Shane Warne Legacy exists. We鈥檝e made it easy to check your health for free in just four minutes, no appointment needed. You can sit down at a self-serve machine and know your numbers. Why wouldn鈥檛 you?鈥� Ms Nolan said.

Free Shane Warne Legacy (SWL) Health Checks were offered at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) for two days during the Boxing Day Test, in partnership with the Legacy鈥檚 founding partner, Latrobe Health Services, and health partner 芒果直播.

During the Test, 56 SiSU Health Stations were available throughout the MCG, giving cricket fans easy access to quick, non-invasive health assessments. Each self-serve station measures blood pressure, body composition, heart rate, and BMI, with results delivered instantly on-screen and via the SiSU Health mobile app

Participants鈥� 5-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes was measured using the Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk (AUDSRISK) tool, delivered via the Health Station.

A participant follow-up survey sent to all health check participants four weeks after testing sought to understand the impact of the health checks on participant lifestyle choices, basic health literacy, and GP outcomes.

Of the survey respondents, almost two-thirds (65%) had made or plan lifestyle changes within the 4 weeks, whilst over three-quarters (77%) were more confident understanding their heart health and diabetes risk.

Follow this link to read the .

Over 430,000 free Shane Warne Legacy health checks have been undertaken over the past two years. To find a Shane Warne Legacy Health Check near you, visit

芒果直播 is encouraging fans attending the NRMA Insurance Boxing Day Test to take a five-minute health check that could change their life.  

Free Shane Warne Legacy (SWL) Health Checks are being offered at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in partnership with the Legacy鈥檚 founding partner, Latrobe Health Services, and health partner 芒果直播, to support people to know their numbers and start a conversation about their health. 

芒果直播 Group CEO Justine Cain urged people attending the Test to take advantage of the opportunity to get on-the-spot results.  

鈥淟ast year, over 13,000 cricket fans underwent a SWL Health Check at the Boxing Day Test, and we鈥檙e aiming for even more in 2025,鈥� Ms Cain said. 

鈥淲hile not all diabetes can be prevented, and some people are at higher risk due to genetic factors or family history, we know that 58 percent of type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented or delayed. For that to happen, we need to reach people who are at risk. 

鈥淭his Boxing Day Test, we鈥檙e encouraging attendees to take a few minutes out of their day to visit the SWL Health Check stations and get to know their numbers. 

鈥淭he great thing about the SWL Health Checks is that they are free, quick and self-serve, and they give people information on their key health metrics that can help start a conversation with their health professional. 

鈥淪hane Warne was a much-loved fixture of Australian sport, both as a larger-than-life cricketer and as an iconic personality with a passion for community. 芒果直播 is proud to partner with the SWL to encourage greater diabetes awareness and health screening.鈥� 

1.3 million Australians are living with type 2 diabetes, and 2 million more are at risk, which could include around 7,000 people at risk in a stadium the size of the MCG 鈥� or 1 in 14 attendees. 

The Shane Warne Legacy CEO Helen Nolan said the health check initiative perfectly reflects Shane鈥檚 belief in supporting individuals and the wider community.  

鈥淚 know he would have been genuinely thrilled to see a program with such meaningful impact come to life. These screenings are more than just a check on your health, they鈥檙e a chance to take proactive steps towards a stronger, healthier future. Because of the awareness Shane鈥檚 name brings many people have embraced this mindset, and I know he would have encouraged everyone to make the most of these free services,鈥� Ms Nolan said. 

This year 56 SiSU Health Stations will be available throughout the MCG, giving cricket fans easy access to quick, non-invasive health assessments. Each self-serve station measures blood pressure, body composition, heart rate, BMI, and AUSDRISK, with results delivered instantly on-screen and via the SiSU Health mobile app. 

In addition to the self-serve stations, clinician-led finger-prick blood tests for cholesterol and blood glucose levels will be offered to eligible participants. If elevated risks are identified, users are encouraged to follow up with a healthcare professional. 

Free SWL Health Checks are鈥痑lso鈥痑vailable nationwide, year-round on SiSU Health Stations at over 300 locations, visit  to learn more. 

Together with Shane Warne Legacy, 芒果直播 is committed鈥痶o raising awareness about the risks of serious health鈥痗onditions like type 2 diabetes and鈥痠ts鈥痗lose connection with other鈥痗hronic鈥痗onditions.鈥�� 

More information about type 2 diabetes prevention is available to individuals by calling 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) on 1800 773 8368鈥痮r visiting /prevention/1800prevent/

Free Shane Warne Legacy health checks are being provided at the Royal Geelong Show (16 鈥� 19 October 2025) for locals to get a quick read on their health.

The (SWL) and 芒果直播 have partnered to provide access to Sisu Health Stations at the Show.

Support for free health checks is part of 芒果直播鈥檚 ongoing commitment to the prevention of type 2 diabetes and its complications.

Over the past year health checks have been provided at events around the country, including the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne and the AFL Gather Round in Adelaide, reaching tens of thousands of Australians.

芒果直播 and the Shane Warne Legacy are working to ensure that as many people as possible have access to valuable information about their health.

These checks, offered through free Stations, assess risk factors for heart disease and type 2 diabetes, including blood pressure, and heart health.

芒果直播 Group CEO Justine Cain is encouraging people attending the show to take advantage of this opportunity to get on-the-spot results.

鈥溍⒐辈� together with the Shane Warne Legacy will be here every day of the Show, so come over to the stand and check on your health.

鈥淥ur health is so important, and people living with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease or have a stroke.鈥�

鈥淭here are 1.3 million Australians living with type 2 diabetes and we estimate another 500,000 are living with it but aren’t diagnosed.

鈥淲hile not all diabetes can be prevented and some people are at higher risk due to genetic factors, or family history, we know that 58 percent of type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented or delayed. For that to happen, early detection of risk is critical.

鈥淭he great thing about the Shane Warne Legacy health checks is they are free, quick and self-serve 鈥� and they give people a baseline health assessment that can help start a conversation with their health professional,鈥� Ms Cain said.

The Shane Warne Legacy CEO Helen Nolan said the Shane Warne Legacy Health Checks have proven that it鈥檚 not only possible but vital to bring healthcare directly to where people are.

鈥淲hen the right technology and partnerships come together, lives can be changed in minutes. Thanks to our health partner, 芒果直播, we鈥檙e proud to offer these -Shane Warne Legacy health checks free to the public at this year鈥檚 Geelong Show. The health checks are now evolving into a groundbreaking model for nationwide health intervention, with over 365,000 Shane Warne Legacy Health Checks delivered since we started in late 2023.鈥�

Jackson Warne said “I am incredibly proud that the Shane Warne Legacy is partnering with 芒果直播 to provide an important health initiative at the Geelong Show. This collaboration embodies my dad鈥檚 values in supporting individuals and the community, and I know he would be genuinely excited to see such an impactful program come to fruition.

鈥淭hese screenings are not just about checking your health; they鈥檙e an opportunity to take proactive steps towards a healthier future, which countless people have done since Dad has passed. Dad would have wholeheartedly supported this initiative, urging everyone to take advantage of these complimentary services. See you at the show!鈥� Mr Warne said.

The free health checks will be available at the Royal Geelong Show from 16-19 October and visitors to the stand will be able access information about prevention of type 2 diabetes and prevention of complications.

People at risk of type 2 diabetes can access free information and referral services by calling 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) or visiting
/prevention/1800prevent/

Callers to 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) speak with a 芒果直播 staff member who supports them in navigating health information services. Where appropriate, callers are given information about existing government-funded programs delivered by respected health organisations in their state or territory.

About 芒果直播
芒果直播 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, state-based organisations, researchers and the community.

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

Type 2 diabetes affects millions of Australians, and many people don鈥檛 realise that diet and exercise are just part of the picture. Age, genetics, and cultural background also play a role. While not all cases are preventable, research shows that up to 58% can be delayed or avoided with the right support. That鈥檚 where the power of conversation comes in. By opening up to our families, friends, and communities, we can raise awareness, share knowledge, and act together. 

This article explores how to start those important conversations and introduces 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes), a free, easy-to-access service designed to support people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes to navigate health resources. Read on to learn what the service offers, how it works, and how you can share it with friends and family.聽

Looking closer at these factors: 

• Diabetes prevalence is higher in some CALD (Culturally and Linguistically Diverse) communities in Australia compared to the Australia-born population, especially among people from the Pacific Islands, Middle East, South Asia, Africa, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islands.  
• Increasing age, especially 40 years onward 
• A family history of diabetes (parents, siblings, or grandparents) 
• A personal history of gestational diabetes or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) 

That鈥檚 why having open, informed conversations are so important. Talking about risk and what to do about it can be the first step toward prevention. With the support of 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes), taking the next step becomes easier. You can access free, trusted resources and prevention support, which we鈥檒l break down in the sections that follow. 

6 tips for starting the conversation  

Starting a conversation with a family member or friend about their risk of developing type 2 diabetes can be sensitive, especially if it touches on topics like weight, diet, or lifestyle. It鈥檚 important to approach the conversation with empathy, curiosity, and a shared sense of care, not judgment or pressure. Here is a step-by-step guide to get you started: 

1. Choose the right moment 

Find a calm, private time where you鈥檙e not rushed and avoid times when the person is stressed, eating, or distracted. Some ideas include over a coffee, on a walk, or relaxing in your backyard. 

2. Lead with care 

Begin by sharing your concerns with kindness and genuine care. Let them know you’re speaking up because their wellbeing matters to you. For example: 

鈥淗ey, I really care about you and wanted to chat to you about something.鈥� 

OR 

鈥淵ou鈥檙e really important to me, and I wanted to check in about something.鈥� 

3. Use a shared personal experience 

Use your own health experiences or family history to ease into the topic: For example: 

鈥淚鈥檝e been learning so much about health in our family lately with dad鈥檚 type 2 diabetes diagnosis, and it made me wonder about all our risk.鈥� 

OR 

鈥淚鈥檝e been looking into ways to stay healthier since my type 2 diabetes diagnosis, which I had no idea was due to my cultural background, and it made me think about you also.鈥� 

4. Be informational, not instructional 

Avoid being forceful and saying things like, 鈥淵ou need to…鈥� or 鈥淵ou have to…鈥�. Instead, if they鈥檙e open to learning more, offer information: 

鈥淒id you know that type 2 diabetes can sometimes be prevented or delayed with some simple changes? I had no idea.鈥� 

OR 

鈥淚 learned just simple things like taking a walk after a meal or swapping out a few cheeky snacks can help reduce the risk, which I鈥檓 thinking of trying.鈥� 

5. Ask their opinion 

Leave room for their opinion and to hear how they feel, but don鈥檛 push. For example: 

鈥淲ould you be keen to look into it with me?鈥� 

OR 

鈥淭here鈥檚 absolutely no pressure, but I鈥檓 here if you want to talk more about it.鈥� 

6. Listen 

If the person hits back, is defensive or doesn鈥檛 want to listen, that鈥檚 okay. Let the conversation go in that moment. You can reply with, 

鈥淚 understand this isn鈥檛 easy to talk about, but I鈥檓 here if you ever want to chat.鈥� 

How it works: Talk. Act. Prevent.  

Starting the conversation is the first step. Then you can share practical support with friends and family – 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes). Plus, remember to remind them that there are no sign-ups, no commitments, and everything is completely free and confidential.

Here is a quick guide on how 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) works:聽聽聽聽

What 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) offers  

Not sure if it鈥檚 worth the call? 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) supports people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes with these great services:  

How to contact 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) 

Anyone can access 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) in two ways:鈥�  

1. Phone:鈥疌all the helpline on 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) (1800 773 8368). Operating hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (local time), excluding public holidays.
2. Online:鈥疺isit for 24/7 access to prevention resources and tools.鈥犅�

One conversation could change a life 

Australians at risk of type 2 diabetes now have access to a free information and referral service helping to stem the tide of the nation鈥檚 type 2 diabetes epidemic.

芒果直播 has launched 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes), a free national hotline and website that will support individuals at risk of type 2 diabetes to navigate health resources.

Two million Australians are living with diagnosed or undiagnosed diabetes which costs our health system $9.1 billion dollars every year. Without further investment in type 2 diabetes prevention up to 3.6 million Australians could be living with diabetes by 2050.  

Although genetics play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes may help to prevent or delay the onset of the condition in up to 58% of cases.

芒果直播 Group CEO Justine Cain said 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) will help people know where they can find local support.

鈥極ne Australian is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes every 8 minutes, but unfortunately there is still a worrying lack of awareness about how serious it is and where to find information to support prevention,鈥� Ms Cain said.  

鈥�1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) is designed to cut through the noise and give every Australian at risk of type 2 diabetes access to information and free local services in their state or territory.  

鈥楾his free information and referral service is part of 芒果直播鈥檚 commitment to reduce rates of type 2 diabetes and its impact on individuals and the health system,鈥� she said.

Callers to 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) will speak with a 芒果直播 staff member who will support them in navigating health information services. Staff will be encouraging callers to speak to their GP for further advice, and where appropriate, callers will also be given information about existing government-funded programs delivered by respected health organisations.

North Queensland General Practitioner Dr Konrad Kangru said initiatives that help to prevent type 2 diabetes are vitally important.

鈥楶reventive health is a critical part of general practice. Having a phone line and website that health professionals can provide to their patients is a useful way to support them to navigate the services that are available,鈥� Dr Kangru said.

鈥楧octors work hard to help people take steps to avoid type 2 diabetes where possible because it comes with serious and costly complications like an increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

鈥�1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) will support that work,鈥� he said.

Brisbane woman Andrea Stevens said 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) will be a lifeline for people like her who are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

鈥楾here is a lot of information out there but it isn鈥檛 always easy to find and sometimes it鈥檚 hard to know if it is good advice or not,鈥� Ms Stevens said.

鈥楬aving a number that you can just call up and speak to someone at 芒果直播 is a real gamechanger.

鈥業 urge anyone who may be at risk of type 2 diabetes, or if they know someone who might be, to call 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes).

鈥楯ust a few small changes to your lifestyle and diet can make a huge difference, that certainly was the case for me,鈥� she said.

芒果直播 Chief Medical Officer, Professor David Simmons said 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) is not a clinical service and does not provide clinical advice.

鈥楾he service is firmly grounded in peer-reviewed, best-practice. Our call centre staff are well trained and experienced in supporting callers in navigating health information services. All related web-based content and lifestyle modification resources have been developed and peer-reviewed by experienced allied health professionals, including Credentialled Diabetes Educators, ensuring clinical accuracy and soundness,鈥� Professor Simmons said.

1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) operates between 8.30am and 5.00pm (local time), Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) on 1800 773 8368. The 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) website provides 24/7 access to type 2 diabetes prevention resources and tools.

芒果直播 delivers a range of other prevention programs and services such as the NSW , Queensland鈥檚 and The COACH Program in Tasmania.

About 芒果直播

芒果直播 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, state-based organisations, researchers and the community.

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

芒果直播 has announced a new partnership with health company Medibank to support life changing research into type 2 diabetes prevention.

芒果直播 and the Medibank Better Health Research Hub will co-fund the Medibank and 芒果直播 Research Award, a $200,000 two-year initiative designed to fast-track innovative, evidence-based interventions to prevent type 2 diabetes.

This is one of the first major industry partnerships announced as part of the recently launched 芒果直播 Research Strategy 2025-2030.

芒果直播 Group CEO Justine Cain said the partnership will help to deliver the Strategy鈥檚 vision of accelerating the translation of research into real-world solutions.

鈥淭hrough our partnership with Medibank, we鈥檙e investing in research that targets high-risk and under-served communities, ensuring that everyone has the chance for a healthier future,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淢ore than 1.3 million Australians live with type 2 diabetes – it is one of the fastest-growing chronic health conditions in Australia. Every eight minutes, another person is diagnosed.

鈥淲hen type 2 diabetes prevention initiatives are targeted to those at greatest risk, evidence shows around 58 percent of cases can be prevented or delayed, and early detection and intervention can significantly reduce the risk of complications.

鈥淏y combining Medibank鈥檚 expertise and commitment to collaboration, with 芒果直播鈥檚 leadership in research and lived experience engagement, the partnership will drive ground-breaking research to reduce the burden of diabetes on individuals, communities and the health system,鈥� she said.

芒果直播鈥檚 transformative new research strategy aims to drive high-impact research through co-funded grants and awards that foster collaboration and innovation across the diabetes research landscape. This approach will amplify resources to support projects that improve diabetes prevention, management and treatment.

Medibank Group Medical Director Dr Shona Sundaraj said 鈥渨e are delighted to partner with 芒果直播 on this important research initiative. The rise in type 2 diabetes is a pressing health challenge and we鈥檙e pleased to support efforts that focus on prevention.鈥�

芒果直播 is investing $40 million dollars in research over the next decade. The organisation is committed to partnering with industry, researchers and health system leaders to codesign and implement innovative research that fast tracks real-world solutions to address the unmet needs of people living diabetes, the health system and community.

About 芒果直播

芒果直播 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, state-based organisations, researchers and the community. For more information visit:聽www.diabetesaustralia.com.au

About the Medibank Better Health Research Hub

The Medibank Better Health Research Hub champions research that addresses areas of health and health system need. With a focus on collaboration and research translation, we partner across the health sector to support Medibank鈥檚 2030 vision to create the best health and wellbeing for Australia. For more information visit: .

芒果直播 has welcomed a new Productivity Commission report that recommends prioritising prevention programs to combat chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

The interim report, , is the final of five interim reports the Productivity Commission has released to help guide the Australian Government鈥檚 productivity agenda.

In its submission to the Delivering quality care more efficiently report, 芒果直播 called for a consistent, national approach to diabetes prevention and the development of self-care models for people living with diabetes.

In response to those calls, recommendation 3 of the report calls on the Australian Government to implement a National Prevention Investment Framework to support prevention programs that improve outcomes and reduce demand for future acute care services.

Australia is in the midst of a type 2 diabetes epidemic with one person diagnosed every eight minutes.

芒果直播 CEO Justine Cain said the individual and economic benefits of investing in chronic condition prevention and wellbeing are well documented.

鈥溍⒐辈� has long advocated for a national framework to inform investment in programs that prevent chronic conditions including type 2 diabetes, as well as the complications relating to all types of diabetes,鈥� Ms Cain said.

鈥淭he recommendations in this report demonstrate that the Federal Government鈥檚 peak economic advisory body also understands the importance of such an approach.

鈥淲e hope that this high-level endorsement will be the catalyst for much needed action around prevention, particularly when it comes to the prevention of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

鈥淲e are ready to work with the government and the broader health community to turn these ideas into action and improve the lives of all those affected by diabetes,鈥� Ms Cain said.

The Productivity Commission鈥檚 final report, titled Growth Mindset, will be released next year after another round of community consultation later this year.

About 芒果直播

芒果直播 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, state-based organisations, researchers and the community.

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