New 10-year plan to support Australians in Bonner with diabetes

In recognition of World Diabetes Day which falls this month, the Morrison Government has released a new 10-year plan to better support Australians in Bonner living with all forms of diabetes.

The Australian National Diabetes Strategy 2021–2030 will drive real improvements in the prevention, early detection, management, and care of people with diabetes.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said with approximately one in 20 Australians affected by diabetes, the new strategy will bring together the latest research and evidence to ensure our health response continues to adapt to the changing health environment.

“The Strategy will help support all Australians living with diabetes, including those in Bonner,” Mr Vasta said.

“It has been updated to include information relevant to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as guidance and support to help Australian’s diabetes self-management.”

“In the last 12 months, the Morrison Government has prioritised the health and wellbeing of Australians, delivering more than 5.9 million diabetes products worth more than $186 million and dispensing more than $709 million in medicines under the PBS.

“Significant investments have been made and will continue to be made by our government into diabetes research.”

The Strategy also features specific details and actions for priority population groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and expectant mothers.

Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt, said with this year’s World Diabetes Day theme being Access to Diabetes Care: If Not Now, When? it highlights the ongoing care and support people with diabetes require to manage their condition and avoid complications.

“This year also marks 100 years since the discovery of insulin, a medical breakthrough that has saved the lives of millions over the last century,” Minister Hunt said.

“The Morrison Government is committed to ensuring Australians with diabetes can continue to access the treatments and support they need, when they need it.”

In just 12 months, the number of Australians with diabetes registered with the National Diabetes Services Scheme increased by more than 120,000 people, climbing to around 1.4 million in June 2021.

The Morrison Government provides funding to support people with diabetes through the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) which includes programs such as KeepSight, Diabetes in Schools, FootForward and MyDesmond; the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), the Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) initiative, and research funding.

The Australian National Diabetes Strategy 2021–2030 is available online – https://www.health.gov.au/resources/publications/australian-national-diabetes-strategy-2021-2030