If you live with diabetes, chances are you’ve heard it before:

“Should you be eating that?”
“Are you allowed cake?”
“I thought people with diabetes can’t have sugar?”

These comments often come up at the worst possible times—birthday parties, Christmas lunch, Easter gatherings, or when you’re simply trying to enjoy a meal out. While usually well-meaning, they can feel intrusive, judgmental, and frankly exhausting.

If you are nodding your head, you are not alone. Diabetes stigma is still very real and is an important topic for discussion.

The problem with “food policing”

As you know, diabetes management is complex, individual, and influenced by many factors—medication, other medical conditions, activity, stress, timing, and overall eating patterns.

Yet people often reduce it to a single moment:
– one slice of cake
– one dessert
– one meal

This kind of “food policing”:

• Oversimplifies diabetes
• Reinforces outdated myths
• Can create shame or guilt around food
• Undermines a person’s autonomy and lived experience

The reality? People with diabetes can include a wide variety of foods in their diet. What matters most is the overall pattern, not one occasion.

Special occasions are part of life

Food is more than fuel—it’s connection, culture, and celebration.

Whether it’s:

• Christmas dinner with all the trimmings
• Birthday cake
• Easter chocolate
• A meal out with friends

These moments matter. Managing diabetes doesn’t mean missing out, it means making informed, flexible choices that work for you.

What to do when someone comments?

Having a few go-to responses can make these situations easier. The goal isn’t to argue, it’s to set boundaries, educate (if you want to), or simply move on.

Calm and confident

• “I’ve got it under control, thanks”
• “I work this into my plan”
• “I know how this affects me”

 Light but firm

• “If I had a dollar for every time I heard that…”
• “Good thing you’re not my dietitian!”
• “I can assure you, I’ve done this before”

Educational (if you feel like it)

• “People with diabetes can eat all kinds of foods, it’s about balance”
• “It’s not just about sugar; there’s a lot more to it”
• “One food doesn’t define my health”

Boundary-setting

• “I’d rather not talk about my food choices”
• “I appreciate your concern, but I’ve got this”

And sometimes, the best response is no response at all.

The bigger picture: tackling stigma

Comments like “should you be eating that?” might seem small, but over time they contribute to:

• Feeling judged or watched
• Anxiety around eating in public
• Misunderstanding of diabetes in the wider community

Reducing stigma starts with awareness:

• Diabetes is not caused by a single food
• Management looks different for everyone
• People living with diabetes are the experts in their own care

Remember:

You don’t need to justify your food choices.
You don’t need permission to enjoy a celebration.
And you don’t need to carry the weight of other people’s misunderstandings.

By Rebecca McPhee, Accredited Practising Dietitian

Tasmania’s Parliament has welcomed a delegation of people living with diabetes, raising awareness of life with the condition, highlighting the importance of preventing complications, and sharing their stories about the positive impact that diabetes technology has on their daily lives.  

Meeting with lawmakers from across the political spectrum, the şÚÁĎÍř-led event heard about the impact preventative telephone health coaching programs like The COACH Program have in the Tasmanian community.  

Attendees also heard about the national campaign for more equitable access to technology including continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and automatic insulin delivery (AID) systems. 

şÚÁĎÍř Group CEO Justine Cain thanked members of Parliament from all sides and all chambers for their interest and support of people living with diabetes in Tasmania.  

“No one chooses diabetes, and thanks to the support of the Tasmanian Parliament, we’re taking big steps to support people living with diabetes in Tasmania to live healthy and fulfilling lives,” she said.  

“Just last weekend, Deputy Premier Guy Barnett led the 19th Pollie Pedal charity bike ride through 300 kilometres of Tasmanian scenery to raise money to support people living with diabetes, cutting-edge research, and activities to help prevent and delay diabetes.  

“We’re grateful for the support of the Tasmanian Government, through prevention programs like The COACH Program, which help support people in many vulnerable and at-risk communities right across Tasmania. 

“A big thank you to every Council and Assembly member for your ongoing support of people living with diabetes in Tasmania.” 

Tasmanian Minister for Health, Mental Health, and Wellbeing, the Hon. Bridget Archer, welcomed the delegation to Parliament.  

“I thank şÚÁĎÍř for its strong support of The Health Revolution, Tasmania’s 20-year preventive health strategy, and for its tireless work and ongoing partnership in improving diabetes outcomes for Tasmanians,” Minister Archer said. 

“Hearing first hand from people living with diabetes helps us to understand how we can ease the challenge of living with diabetes for people across the state.” 

şÚÁĎÍř State General Manager, Impact and Innovation (Tas) Minke Hoekstra said delivery of local prevention programs like The COACH Program were helping to prevent and delay diabetes and associated complications, like cardiovascular disease, by helping Tasmanians lead healthier lives.  

“More than 32,000 people live with diabetes across Tasmania, with another estimated 12,000 silently living with type 2 diabetes,” she said.  

“The COACH Program has seen positive outcomes over the last two years including improved glucose levels and increased physical activity.   

“These results show the importance of prevention programs that give people the tools and resources to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.  

“Thank you to all Assembly and Council members for your ongoing support of people living with diabetes in Tasmania – your support helps our community to thrive.” 

Around 50 people living with diabetes and their families and supporters gathered at Tasmania’s State Parliament on 18 March to discuss life with diabetes across all sides of Parliament. 

As Australians prepare for a festive season filled with food, family and good wishes, people living with diabetes are being encouraged to approach the holidays with confidence by planning ahead and making mindful choices to protect their health.

Christmas is traditionally centred around shared meals, and this year a range of fresh, vibrant and nourishing recipes have been developed to help households create a festive table that is both delicious and diabetes-friendly.

The recipes include colourful veggie Christmas trees, jewelled quinoa with salmon, strawberry Santa hats and spiced nuts, offering lighter, balanced alternatives to traditional festive fare. The focus is on flavour, presentation and enjoyment, while supporting stable blood glucose levels.

Planning is particularly important during an Australian summer, when heat, travel, disrupted routines and increased social activity can all affect diabetes management.

Health professionals advise people with diabetes to prepare early for public holiday pharmacy closures by ensuring they have sufficient medications, insulin, monitoring supplies and hypo treatments . Maintaining regular medication timing and glucose monitoring, even during busy holiday periods, can help reduce unexpected fluctuations.

Alcohol and rich festive foods can also present challenges.  Alcohol can unpredictably raise or lower blood glucose, especially with diabetes medications. Risks can be reduced by eating carbohydrate-rich foods with alcohol and avoiding drinking on an empty stomach.

More frequent glucose monitoring may be needed after large meals or social events. People using GLP-1 medications are also advised to be cautious with portion sizes as overeating can increase the risk of nausea and digestive discomfort.

Travel is another key consideration. Medications and diabetes devices should always be carried in hand luggage, as checked baggage may be exposed to temperature extremes or delays. Insulin should be stored in a cool environment but never frozen. Those travelling overseas are advised to carry a doctor’s letter outlining their diabetes management needs and any devices they use.

Emotional wellbeing is also an important part of diabetes management during the festive season. If feeling overwhelmed, reach out to your diabetes support network or a mental health professional. You’re not alone in navigating holiday challenges.

With early preparation, thoughtful food choices and consistent routines, Australians living with diabetes can enjoy a happy and healthy festive season .

Festive recipe ideas are available at:/blog/create-a-festive-spread-for-all-to-enjoy/

---

 

Living with diabetes can be challenging. It takes daily effort, and we know there can be serious complications related to diabetes. Beyond the physical side, diabetes can also affect emotional health. Conditions like diabetes distress and burnout are real and affect many people living with diabetes.

What are they?

• Diabetes distress
  The daily frustrations, worries, and demands of managing diabetes can pile up, leaving you feeling discouraged or weighed down. It’s common to feel stressed about blood glucose levels, food choices, activity options or medication routines.
• Diabetes burnout
  This is when you feel emotionally and mentally exhausted from the constant demands of diabetes care. You might feel like giving up or ignoring your management plan because it all feels too much.

These feelings are common—but they don’t have to take over your life. There are ways to reduce them; protect your emotional health, and bring more joy into your day.

Why joy matters

Managing diabetes isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Building mental wellbeing can be a gradual, enjoyable process. Small steps, like doing activities you love, connecting with others, looking forward to fun things, and celebrating small wins can make a big difference.

Psychologists say that celebrating small wins and looking forward to positive experiences can improve emotional health. When we notice and enjoy the things that make us happy, we create moments of joy that reduce stress and help prevent burnout.

What are you looking forward to?

Research shows that anticipating something enjoyable can boost happiness and resilience. Ask yourself what are you looking forward to. Joy doesn’t have to be big, it can be simple, like planning a walk or looking forward to cooking a favourite meal.

Anticipation is excitement, waiting eagerly for something you know is going to happen.

Simple ways to add joy and anticipation

Here are some practical ideas to help you focus on positive experiences:

• Plan a catch-up with a friend. Put it on your calendar so you can look forward to it.  Making it a regular occurrence is even better.
• Create a relaxing bedtime routine. A warm shower, a good book, or calming music can make evenings special.
• Schedule quiet time for mindfulness. Pick a favourite spot and notice the sounds and smells around you. Planning this time ahead brings in the joy of anticipation.
• Reflect on the positives. Each day, write down one good thing that happened and something you’re excited about.  Build up the habit of thinking about the good things to come.
• Plan your weekly meals. Try a new recipe with a favourite ingredient—like “Mango Monday” or “Taco Tuesday”.
• Host a dinner. Invite someone you enjoy spending time with. If they return the favour, you’ll have more fun events to anticipate.
• Find joy in nature. Take a walk and notice colours, plants, and birdlife.  Book a weekly outdoor outing.
• Set specific goals. Instead of “I want to be happier,” try “I’ll spend 30 minutes on my art project on Tuesday evenings.”
• Learn something new. Join a class that’s fun and social. If it is on a Thursday, that day becomes special.
• Make a homecoming ritual. When you get home, do something that feels good—share a hug, check in with your partner, play your favourite song, view your plants, or make a cup of tea.
• Leave a little treasure. Organise a small surprise for someone else—it can bring joy to both receiver and giver.
• Be creative – express yourself.  Joy often comes from self-expression. You might want to try:
  • Writing. Start a journal, write a short story or develop an expressive poem.
  • Music. Play your instrument, dance or make a playlist that lifts your mood.
  • Art. Paint, draw, or craft with emotion, just for fun.

Remember:

Joy doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about noticing, planning, looking forward to, and enjoying the moments that matter to you. Simple, fun changes can make diabetes management feel more positive and give you something to look forward to. These small changes can also help you stay strong and healthy over time.

By Monica McDaniel-Wong, Credentialled Diabetes Educator

More than 150 Kellion Victory Medals have been awarded in 2025 to Australians living with diabetes across seven ceremonies in Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales, and Queensland.  

This year’s awards recognised recipients right across Australia, with events held in seven capital cities including the nation’s capital.  

Awarded annually, the Kellion Victory Medal recognises and celebrates strength, resilience, and self-management, and honours the extraordinary commitment of people living with diabetes.  

A key theme among recipients was the impact of changes and improvements in technology, overcoming early adversity, and their achievements to live a full life living with diabetes.  

Many medallists spoke about early management practices involving glass syringes, home testing kits that relied on test tubes, and sharpening needles at home, reflecting on how far diabetes management has come.  

They also spoke about how their family and supporters have been key to their longevity, thanking the family, carers, friends and supporters who’ve contributed to their diabetes journey.  

At the Brisbane ceremony, 80-year Medal recipient William Buston reflected on how much care and treatment has changed, and the impact that family and friends have had over the years.  

Diagnosed after his first birthday in the mid-1940s, William reflected on the challenges of balancing diet, exercise, and insulin without the technology we take for granted today.  

Thanks to determined parents, who struggled to find the foods recommended at the time, and later supported by his wife, he graduated with degrees in medicine and surgery from the University of Queensland.  

William went on to practise medicine, later qualifying in occupational health and safety, for more than 40 years.  

In Sydney, 50-year Medallist Vivian Stanners was a newly arrived English migrant when she was diagnosed, crediting in-laws being close by for being very helpful.  

Early management revolved around a daily injection, sterilising glass syringes in boiling water with the help of a chip basket, and yellow paper tape level monitoring.  

Support has been important to Vivian, with her husband Neil being by her side and making sure they didn’t miss out on what life has to offer.  

Australian Kellion Victory Medal Ambassador, Gordon Bunyan, who received his 50 Year Kellion Medal in Melbourne this year, said the stories shared by all the medal recipients were inspiring and recognise that, although their long lives demonstrated it was possible to live “a normal life”, it was not without a lot of hard work.  

“Living a long and full life with diabetes is something to be celebrated. Each Kellion Victory Medal recipient has a unique story to tell, and each of those stories is an inspiration to the community.”  

Among the stories shared, many told us the difference that Stan Clark made by inventing the first home glucometer.  Stan’s daughter Lisa has lived with diabetes for 53 years and was one of 15 şÚÁĎÍř community advocates attending Kellion Victory Medal events. In memory of her father, Lisa has published a book detailing her father’s pursuit of innovation through the first home blood glucose monitor. It is the ultimate example of co-designed research and innovation that evolved over time to meet the needs of people living with diabetes including underrepresented groups.  

Named in memory of John Kellion, who passed away due to complications from type 1 diabetes, the Kellion Diabetes Research Foundation was established by his father Claude Kellion in 1974 , with a donation of  more than $1 million for diabetes research and education.  

The Kellion Victory Medal was established in 1984 by şÚÁĎÍř. The idea was  proposed and developed by the late Dr Alan Stocks, a renowned endocrinologist living with type 1 diabetes, who also received 50 and 60-year Medals.   

Children living with type 1 diabetes and their families enjoyed a free day out at Luna Park in Sydney, at a special event made possible by şÚÁĎÍř in the lead up to World Diabetes Day (14 November).

şÚÁĎÍř Group CEO Justine Cain said the aim of the day was to bring fun, laughter and community to families navigating life with type 1 diabetes.

More than 150 people, including children with diabetes and their families, attended the free day out.

Type 1 diabetes is a complex and serious autoimmune condition that affects 14,200 children and teenagers in Australia.

“Living with diabetes is about more than numbers—it’s about people, progress, and possibility. At şÚÁĎÍř, we’re doing everything we can to support children and their families who live with diabetes,” Ms Cain said.

“A diagnosis of type 1 diabetes in children can be incredibly stressful for parents, carers and families – it requires constant vigilance and can impact the whole family.” 

“Whilst we don’t yet know the cause, early diagnosis and treatment can reduce the risk of complications and serious illness.”

“Raising awareness is key and this World Diabetes Day, one of our goals is to shine a light on the importance of screening and early detection of type 1 diabetes.”

“It’s important to be aware of the early warning signs or what we call the 4Ts – Tired, Thirsty, Thinner and Toilet.  If you notice your child has signs of type 1 diabetes, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.”

Emma Bond, Blue Circle Collective Youth Advocate, joined the group at Luna Park and shared about her own experience living with type 1 diabetes.

“Having grown up in the central-western region of NSW, I truly treasure and understand the importance of creating spaces and active communities for everyone living with diabetes.

“This year I will be celebrating having lived with type 1 diabetes for twelve years (1 year longer than when I was diagnosed at 11) and whilst I know that I still have many more years to go, I love encouraging children and young people who are on the same journey,” Ms Bond said.

şÚÁĎÍř provides a range of resources, educational videos, and programs to support children living with type 1 diabetes and their families. One of these is the DiaBuddies program, which helps children with type 1 diabetes, their families and carers feel connected, confident, and part of a community through social activities that support education, peer support, and leadership opportunities.

Many people approach exercise as a way to lose weight but there are many more benefits to exercise than just weight management.

When you look at exercise holistically there are three distinct categories where exercise provides benefits way beyond weight loss. Here are three areas where exercise makes a big impact.

Wellbeing and mental health

Living with diabetes can be stressful and exhausting at times. But did you know exercise can increase your energy and boost your mood? Recent research has provided evidence of just how beneficial exercise is for improving your mental wellbeing. In some cases, the power of exercise has been shown to be just as effective as medication, and sometimes more so. The best part? Even a single bout of exercise can boost your mood and mental health.

The benefits

• Increased energy
• Increased self-esteem
• Improved mood
• Reduction of anxiety and depression
• Stress relief – this is important because stress hormones can significantly increase blood glucose levels and blood pressure.

Tips:

• Look out for group exercise programs, involving a social component to your exercise can make it more enjoyable, improve your self-esteem, and make it less daunting.
• Exercise outdoors or listen to your favourite music while exercising.
• Exercise with a friend who makes you laugh or makes you feel good about yourself.

Your heart

Exercise does wonders for your heart. When you exercise your heart adapts to the increased demands placed on it, making it stronger and more efficient.

The benefits

• Improved blood pressure and health of your blood vessels.
• Increased blood flow to the heart and the rest of your body. Efficient blood flow means more oxygen and nutrients can reach your organs.
• Reduces your risk of developing heart-related conditions.
• Can alleviate symptoms associated with cardiac conditions, such as chest pain (angina).
• Increases the muscle size and strength of your heart.

Tips:

• Change the intensity of your aerobic exercise throughout the week – one day you may choose a hilly path to walk up for 5-10 minutes, on another day you could perform a longer brisk walk for 30-60 minutes.
• Break up your activity into smaller, more frequent bouts throughout the week. This can help you build a routine and increase movement in your day.
• Include strength exercises into your exercise routine.
• Where possible take the stairs instead of the lift.
• Alternate between different paces when you’re walking.

Your brain

A lack of physical activity is one of the risk factors associated with developing Alzheimer’s disease. As you age, it is very common for physical activity levels to decrease but if you continue to exercise, your brain will benefit from increased blood flow and a reduction of stress and inflammatory hormones circulating your body. Essentially, you are continually working on your brain’s ability to stimulate your muscles to keep up with the exercise demand.

The benefits:

• Maintains the size of the hippocampus (the part of the brain responsible for your memory and ability to think).
• Increases your heart rate which means increased oxygen and nutrients to the brain.
• Improves sleep which helps keep your brain healthy.
• Promotes neuroplasticity – increasing your brain’s ability to form new nerve connections, and improving its efficiency to perform different tasks.

Tips:

• Try something new. Research has shown that if you can combine exercise with a new skill, you will be beneficially maintaining the size of the hippocampus. Grandchildren can be a great source for improving your brain health because they have numerous games in their memory bank, some of which might be new to you. Trying a new game will not only act as a form of exercise but will involve concentration to ensure you are performing the game or skill correctly.
• Choose an exercise that will make you think. For example, take up dance lessons that involve learning new steps.

Exercise is great for your wellbeing, your heart, and your brain. Whatever your age, there’s strong scientific evidence that being physically active can help you lead a healthier and happier life – while also targeting your blood glucose levels. A win, win

Have you ever noticed when you are experiencing a particular feeling or mood you reach for food? It might be grabbing something sweet, such as chocolate, when you are feeling down or stressed, or a packet of chips when you are bored. While the occasional treat is normal and part of a balanced diet, relying on refined, processed food all the time can have a negative impact on your health, including your brain. In fact, a high intake of refined, processed foods has been linked to impaired brain function, including low mood, poor concentration, and depression.

Studies have compared the western diet to more traditional diets such as the Mediterranean and Japanese Okinawan diet and found the risk of depression is 25-35% lower in those who eat a more traditional diet. What is the difference? A more traditional type of diet is based on vegetables, fruit, unprocessed wholegrains, legumes, fish and seafood, small amounts of lean protein and dairy, and minimal processed, refined foods.

Easy ways to include nutrient-dense whole foods to sustain your mood

1. Omega-3 rich fish: Your brain’s best friend

Your brain holds the key to regulating your emotions and mood, but did you know 60% of your brain and nervous system is composed of fat? This fat-rich network plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal brain function, and ultimately your mood. Fuelling your brain and nervous system with omega-3 fats is the best way to help the nervous system avoid slowing down and continue to help regulate your mood. In fact, research has found that low levels of omega-3 fats are linked to depressed mood, hostility, and impulsive behaviour. The best sources of omega-3 come from oily salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, and herring, and it is recommended to include this two or three times a week.

Ideas: Add some omega-3 rich fish to the barbecue or a salad to keep your brain nourished and to lift your mood.

2. Nuts: Tiny powerhouses for your mood and mind

Nuts provide a host of benefits for both the brain and your mood. Packed with nutrients such as healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, nuts offer a natural boost to brain function. Additionally, nuts contain mood-enhancing compounds, including serotonin and magnesium, which can help regulate mood and promote a sense of wellbeing.

Ideas: Include some raw nuts as a snack. One serve of raw nuts = 30g (1/4 cup). Nuts also make a great addition to dishes, including granola, smoothies, salads, soups, stir fries, and curries.

3. Legumes: Protein-packed mood elevators

Legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans, are not only excellent sources of plant-based protein but also powerhouses. These versatile foods are packed with essential nutrients, including folate, magnesium, and iron, which play a crucial role in keeping your mood balanced.

Ideas: Add legumes to soups, salads, casseroles, and dips.

4. Berries: Bursting with goodness and antioxidants

Berries such as blueberries, strawberries and raspberries are rich in vitamin C and anthocyanins, which have been linked to improved mood and cognitive function.

Ideas: Snack on a handful of berries, blend them into a smoothie, or top Greek yoghurt or oats with a colourful medley of berries to uplift your mood.

5. Oats

Start your morning with a nourishing bowl of porridge or granola, and you will be guaranteed to kick-start your day on a positive note. Oats have a low GI value, meaning they provide a sustained release of energy and help keep your blood glucose levels stable. They are also rich in tryptophan, an amino acid essential for serotonin production. Try soaking oats overnight, topped with mood-boosting fruits like berries, or sprinkle a handful of nuts for added crunch and healthy fats.

The foods you eat play a significant role in your wellbeing, particularly when it comes to regulating your mood. However, a balanced diet is just one aspect of maintaining good mental wellbeing. There are many other factors that play a key role in mood management, including hydration, adequate sleep, managing stress, regular physical activity, prioritising self-care, and seeking professional guidance if needed.

Find out more about your mood and wellbeing.

By Accredited Practising Dietitian, Rebecca McPhee

This National Diabetes Week (July 13 to 19) Australians who have lived with type 1 diabetes for 50 years or more were recognised with Kellion Victory Medals at a special ceremony at Perth’s Government House.

The Kellion Victory Medals are a celebration of strength, resilience and lifelong self-management. They honour the extraordinary commitment of people living with diabetes and are named in memory of John Kellion, who died at age 38 due to complications from type 1 diabetes. His father, Claude Kellion, established the Kellion Diabetes Foundation, which has contributed more than $1 million to diabetes research and education.

A number of Kellion presentations have been held throughout National Diabetes Week.

Among this year’s recipients is Colleen Ashby, 60, from Perth’s Kalamunda Hills, whose inspiring journey with type 1 diabetes spans five decades. Diagnosed at just nine years old at Princess Margaret Hospital in 1974, Colleen has refused to let diabetes define or limit her life.

She is the author of two books, I Can See Clearly Now and You Got to Laugh.

Colleen says living with diabetes has taught her persistence and adaptability.

“Diabetes has been part of my life since I was a child but it has never stopped me from achieving.

“There were times I was told I could not do something because of injuries or past surgeries but I have always believed that your abilities matter more than your limitations.

“After the transplant and losing my sight, I knew I couldn’t teach dance anymore but with my 5% peripheral vision I knew I could follow a black line in a pool. I learned to swim competitively and found new ways to live fully.

“Receiving the Kellion Medal means a lot to me. It’s recognition of not just living with diabetes but of living well and not giving in.”

At the event, şÚÁĎÍř also announced Gordon Bunyan as the inaugural Australian Kellion Victory Medal Ambassador. Gordon, who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 50 years, is a respected lawyer, long-time şÚÁĎÍř Board member and diabetes advocate, and competitive sports car driver. He has served as the chairperson of the International Diabetes Federation Western Pacific Region (IDF WPR) Council, as well as IDF vice president. He is the co-chair of the IDF WPR Congress 2026 Organising Committee, with the Congress to be held in Melbourne next year.    

As Kellion Ambassador, he represents the voices of people who know the challenges of living with type 1 diabetes long-term and highlight the importance of improved care, research and support.

Mr Bunyan said the Kellion Victory Medals are a powerful reminder of what is possible with early diagnosis, access to care, and strong community support.

“These medal recipients have lived with type 1 diabetes for more than half a century,” Mr Bunyan said. “Their stories are a testament to resilience, innovation in care, and the importance of research and education. These are values Claude Kellion upheld when he established the foundation in memory of his son.

“Claude wanted people living with diabetes to have access to the best education about the condition so they could live long and healthy lives,” Mr Bunyan said.

About şÚÁĎÍř

şÚÁĎÍř 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 diabetes organisations, researchers and the community.

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

Australia’s peak diabetes organisations have welcomed new recommendations from the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society (ADIPS) that update the way gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is diagnosed, saying the changes will help better target care to the women who need it most.

The updated guidelines, published today in the Medical Journal of Australia, recommend higher blood glucose thresholds for diagnosing GDM and introduce more tailored screening for women with known risk factors early in pregnancy. said these evidence-based changes aim to ensure women and their babies receive appropriate care without over-medicalising pregnancies where the risk of complications is low.

şÚÁĎÍř, the and the joins with ADIPS in supporting the changes, as have other peak health bodies, reflecting broad consensus across diabetes management. 

For the first time, Australia’s leading experts in GDM including general practitioners, obstetricians, midwives, diabetes clinicians and pathologists, have united behind a national approach to improve the consistency and clarity of GDM diagnosis. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in maternal health and diabetes care.

More than 280,000 women give birth in Australia each year, and GDM affects nearly one in five pregnancies. Appropriate diagnosis and treatment are critical in reducing the risk of complications during pregnancy and birth, and in helping women avoid long-term health issues such as type 2 diabetes.

It’s critically important that every woman who develops GDM is identified and supported with the care she needs. These updated guidelines will facilitate that goal by focusing healthcare resources where they can make the biggest difference on women and babies most at risk.

The recommendations follow a decade of evolving research and reflect the lived experience of women who have had GDM, alongside the clinical insights of the country’s leading diabetes and maternity care professionals.

Implementation of the new recommendations will be rolled out across hospitals and primary care settings over the coming months.