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, ������, 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’s 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.  

“With this partnership there’s no need for people to ‘shop around’ for good health – now they can check their risk while at Target checking the latest fashion,” Ms Cain said.   

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

“Millions of Australians are either living with or at risk of type 2 diabetes, and many don’t 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.” 

Ms Cain said the partnership reflects ������’s commitment to innovative approaches to prevention.  

“We 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.” 

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 ������ to bring accessible health solutions into everyday retail environments.  

“At Target, we’re committed to supporting our local communities. By hosting these health stations in our stores, we’re helping make it easier for customers to access simple, free health checks as part of their everyday routines.”  

“This pilot reflects our broader focus on creating positive community impact — using our national store network to help explore ways to remove barriers to early detection and support better health outcomes for Australians.”  

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 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.  

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.

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

“The 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,” Ms Cain said.

“While 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’s Test we’ve done that for thousands of individuals.

“Shane was a beloved figure not just in Australian sports but as an iconic personality with a passion for community. ������ is proud to partner with SWL to encourage greater diabetes awareness and screening,” she said.

The Shane Warne Legacy CEO Helen Nolan said “we’re 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.

“In early February 2022 Shane said to me, ‘For the first time in my life I feel exhausted. I need a proper break. Three months. Is there a way?’

“I 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.

“And contrary to what was reported, he wasn’t seeing a heart specialist or any doctor. He had no idea what was about to unfold.

“It’s such a simple lesson, but I think about it every day: when your body speaks, listen.

“That’s exactly why the Shane Warne Legacy exists. We’ve 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’t you?” 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’s founding partner, Latrobe Health Services, and health partner ������.

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’ 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

������ 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’s founding partner, Latrobe Health Services, and health partner ������, to support people to know their numbers and start a conversation about their health. 

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

“Last year, over 13,000 cricket fans underwent a SWL Health Check at the Boxing Day Test, and we’re aiming for even more in 2025,” Ms Cain said. 

“While 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. 

“This Boxing Day Test, we’re encouraging attendees to take a few minutes out of their day to visit the SWL Health Check stations and get to know their numbers. 

“The 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. 

“Shane 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. ������ is proud to partner with the SWL to encourage greater diabetes awareness and health screening.” 

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 – or 1 in 14 attendees. 

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

“I 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’re a chance to take proactive steps towards a stronger, healthier future. Because of the awareness Shane’s name brings many people have embraced this mindset, and I know he would have encouraged everyone to make the most of these free services,” 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 also available nationwide, year-round on SiSU Health Stations at over 300 locations, visit  to learn more. 

Together with Shane Warne Legacy, ������ is committed to raising awareness about the risks of serious health conditions like type 2 diabetes and its close connection with other chronic conditions.   

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

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

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

Support for free health checks is part of ������’s 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.

������ 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.

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

“������ 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.

“Our health is so important, and people living with diabetes are twice as likely to develop heart disease or have a stroke.”

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

“While 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.

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

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

“When the right technology and partnerships come together, lives can be changed in minutes. Thanks to our health partner, ������, we’re proud to offer these -Shane Warne Legacy health checks free to the public at this year’s 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.”

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

“These screenings are not just about checking your health; they’re 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!” 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 ������ 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 ������
������ 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’t 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’s 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. 

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’s 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’ll 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’s 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’re 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: 

“Hey, I really care about you and wanted to chat to you about something.” 

OR 

“You’re really important to me, and I wanted to check in about something.” 

3. Use a shared personal experience 

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

“I’ve been learning so much about health in our family lately with dad’s type 2 diabetes diagnosis, and it made me wonder about all our risk.” 

OR 

“I’ve 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.” 

4. Be informational, not instructional 

Avoid being forceful and saying things like, “You need to…” or “You have to…”. Instead, if they’re open to learning more, offer information: 

“Did you know that type 2 diabetes can sometimes be prevented or delayed with some simple changes? I had no idea.” 

OR 

“I 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’m thinking of trying.” 

5. Ask their opinion 

Leave room for their opinion and to hear how they feel, but don’t push. For example: 

“Would you be keen to look into it with me?” 

OR 

“There’s absolutely no pressure, but I’m here if you want to talk more about it.” 

6. Listen 

If the person hits back, is defensive or doesn’t want to listen, that’s okay. Let the conversation go in that moment. You can reply with, 

“I understand this isn’t easy to talk about, but I’m here if you ever want to chat.” 

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:    

What 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) offers  

Not sure if it’s 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:   

1. Phone: Call 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: Visit for 24/7 access to prevention resources and tools.   

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’s type 2 diabetes epidemic.

������ 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.

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

‘One 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,’ Ms Cain said.  

‘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.  

‘This free information and referral service is part of ������’s commitment to reduce rates of type 2 diabetes and its impact on individuals and the health system,’ she said.

Callers to 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) will speak with a ������ 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.

‘Preventive 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,’ Dr Kangru said.

‘Doctors 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.

‘1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) will support that work,’ 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.

‘There is a lot of information out there but it isn’t always easy to find and sometimes it’s hard to know if it is good advice or not,’ Ms Stevens said.

‘Having a number that you can just call up and speak to someone at ������ is a real gamechanger.

‘I 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).

‘Just a few small changes to your lifestyle and diet can make a huge difference, that certainly was the case for me,’ she said.

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

‘The 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,’ 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.

������ delivers a range of other prevention programs and services such as the NSW , Queensland’s and The COACH Program in Tasmania.

About ������

������ 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

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

������ and the Medibank Better Health Research Hub will co-fund the Medibank and ������ 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 .

������ Group CEO Justine Cain said the partnership will help to deliver the Strategy’s vision of accelerating the translation of research into real-world solutions.

“Through our partnership with Medibank, we’re investing in research that targets high-risk and under-served communities, ensuring that everyone has the chance for a healthier future,” Ms Cain said.

“More 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.

“When 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.

“By combining Medibank’s expertise and commitment to collaboration, with ������’s 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,” she said.

������’s 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 “we are delighted to partner with ������ on this important research initiative. The rise in type 2 diabetes is a pressing health challenge and we’re pleased to support efforts that focus on prevention.”

������ 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 ������

������ 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: 

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’s 2030 vision to create the best health and wellbeing for Australia. For more information visit: .

������ 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’s productivity agenda.

In its submission to the Delivering quality care more efficiently report, ������ 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.

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

“������ 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,” Ms Cain said.

“The recommendations in this report demonstrate that the Federal Government’s peak economic advisory body also understands the importance of such an approach.

“We 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.

“We 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,” Ms Cain said.

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

About ������

������ 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

������ has marked National Diabetes Week (13 – 19 July 2025) with two major initiatives designed to tackle Australia’s type 2 diabetes epidemic and improve outcomes for people living with the condition.

A policy paper released today calls on the Australian Government to more than double its investment in preventive health, lifting it to 5 percent of total health expenditure by 2030. A second report also highlights the importance of preventing complications, showing more than 560,000 Australians are reducing their risk of diabetes-related blindness through the KeepSight eye check reminder program.

������ Group CEO Justine Cain said both reports highlight the urgent need for national leadership and coordinated action to reduce the impact of diabetes on the health system and the lives of millions of Australians.

“Prevention is the most cost-effective and sustainable strategy to address the type 2 diabetes epidemic,” Ms Cain said.

“Preventing type 2 diabetes is not only possible, it is essential. Around 58 percent of cases can be prevented or delayed. Early detection of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can also help to prevent serious complications.”

Report: A Healthier Future: Reducing the Impact of Diabetes Through Prevention

The diabetes prevalence rate in Australia is increasing rapidly. Since 2000, the number of Australians diagnosed with all types of diabetes has risen by 220 percent from 460,000 to almost 1.5 million. If current trends continue, that number could reach 3.6 million by 2050.

������’s new policy paper, A Healthier Future: Reducing the Impact of Diabetes Through Prevention, outlines four national priority goals:

1.  Prioritise reducing disparities and overcoming barriers
2.  Prevention and early detection of type 2 diabetes
3.  Strengthen support for diabetes self-management 
4.  Prevent complications and optimise diabetes management

“Many of the most serious complications, such as amputations, kidney failure and vision loss, can be prevented with timely, coordinated care and support,” Ms Cain said.

“Lifting investment in preventive health to 5 percent of national healthcare spending will save lives, reduce complications from chronic conditions like diabetes, and help keep our health system financially sustainable.”

Report: Unveiling the Value of KeepSight: Enhancing Diabetes-Related Vision Care and Preventing Vision Loss

As part of its commitment to preventing complications, ������ delivers KeepSight, a national reminder program encouraging people with diabetes to have regular eye checks.

Since its launch in 2019, KeepSight has helped more than half a million Australians reduce their risk of diabetes-related blindness by over 90 percent. More than 8,000 people join the program each month, and over 60 percent of those who receive reminders return for ongoing checks within the recommended timeframes.

A new report, Unveiling the Value of KeepSight: Enhancing Diabetes-Related Vision Care and Preventing Vision Loss, highlights the success of the program and the importance of regular screening in detecting diabetes-related retinopathy and vision issues before symptoms appear.

“Diabetes is relentless. People manage multiple health concerns every day, and eye checks can slip down the priority list,” Ms Cain said.

“KeepSight provides a simple, effective nudge that helps people take action. It’s a great example of how digital health interventions can improve outcomes and change behaviour.”

Most participants are referred to KeepSight by their optometrist, with more than 80 percent of the major and independent optometry providers integrated in the program. It is publicly/privately funded by the Australian Government and founding partner Specsavers, with support from the eye sector including Vision 2020 Australia, RANZCO, and Optometry Australia.

Vision 2020 Australia CEO Carly Iles said the program breaks down common barriers to care.

“Cost, access, or even fear of a diagnosis can prevent people from getting checked. KeepSight helps reduce those barriers by offering reminders and reassurance from a trusted source,” Ms Iles said.

The report positions KeepSight as a national benchmark for coordinated diabetes eye care, bringing together government, optometry, ophthalmology and health bodies to ensure consistency and quality across the sector.

Ms Cain said both the policy paper and KeepSight report demonstrate the importance of preventing diabetes complications.

“This is a turning point. We must act now to prevent more people from developing type 2 diabetes and ensure better care and outcomes for those already living with the condition.”

Background

• Type 2 diabetes is one of the fastest-growing chronic health conditions in Australia.
• Every 8 minutes someone is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, with increasing rates among young people.
• 1.3 million Australians are living with type 2 diabetes
• 2 million Australians live with all types of diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes.
• Diabetes costs the Australian health system an estimated $9.1 billion annually.
• Type 2 diabetes prevention includes healthy lifestyle programs, early detection, and improved access to care for at-risk populations.

About ������

������ 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

Type 2 diabetes is one of the most pressing health issues facing Australia today. An Australian is diagnosed every five minutes, and over 1.3 million people are currently living with the condition.

In the past 10 years rates of type 2 diabetes in young people have grown exponentially. The number of people diagnosed with diabetes in their 20s and 30s has increased by 44%, and diabetes diagnoses before the age of 20 have risen by 17%.

While genetics and other risk factors contribute, up to 58% of type 2 diabetes cases are thought to be preventable, making public education and lifestyle support more critical than ever.

As part of National Diabetes Week 2025, ������ is calling for urgent national action to prevent type 2 diabetes and its devastating complications. With the health system facing over $9 billion in annual diabetes-related costs, the need for prevention has never been greater.

The rising cost of inaction

Diabetes is estimated to cost the Australian health system more than $9.1 billion every year. That’s almost three times more than previous estimates. If even half of this burden could be avoided, the savings would be enough to fund the annual salary of 45,000 nurses.

The personal toll is also immense. Type 2 diabetes increases the risk of heart attacks and stroke by up to four times. It is the leading cause of blindness in working-age adults, kidney failure, and amputations, many of which are preventable with early intervention and good care.

For people living with diabetes, preventing or delaying complications is a 24/7 job. It requires the monitoring of blood glucose levels and blood pressure, keeping cholesterol low, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet. It also requires the support of a team of health professionals providing expert advice.

Without action, 3.6 million Australians could be living with diabetes by 2050, putting unsustainable pressure on individuals, communities, and the health system.

Prevention: What’s needed?

������ has long advocated for a national prevention strategy and continues to call on the Federal Government to invest in a coordinated approach. Raising awareness of type 2 diabetes prevention through public education campaigns and initiatives to encourage healthy lifestyles is long overdue. We are calling for better food labelling to make healthy choices easier; school-based programs to educate children and families early; and culturally sensitive support for high-risk communities.

During National Diabetes Week 2025 we are encouraging Australians to get a health check to understand their risk of type 2 diabetes. The free AusDRisk health assessment tool is available online and can assess an individual’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes over the next five years.

Australia has seen successful prevention campaigns for other health conditions, including melanoma and breast cancer, so we know this can work.

Preventing type 2 diabetes requires more than individual willpower. It needs environments that support healthy choices, and a society that understands diabetes is not caused by personal failure but is shaped by complex factors including genetics, access to healthy food, and opportunity for physical activity.

Addressing stigma and supporting people at risk

Misinformation about diabetes can cause shame and isolation. Stigma often prevents people from seeking help or making changes. It’s critical to challenge the idea that type 2 diabetes is simply a result of poor choices. Genetics, cultural background, and social determinants of health all play a role.

Everyone deserves support, not blame. That starts with improving awareness and ensuring people can access help early.

The role of allied health in prevention

, one of Australia’s largest networks of allied health providers, plays a valuable role in supporting prevention and early intervention.

• Exercise physiologists create tailored movement plans to improve fitness and reduce insulin resistance.
• Podiatrists help prevent diabetes-related foot complications and keep people active.
• Physiotherapists support safe physical activity and address mobility barriers that can limit exercise.
• Dietitians and other health professionals across Healthia’s clinics support long-term behaviour change through evidence-based care.

With over 400 clinics nationwide, Healthia’s services are accessible in both metropolitan and regional areas, helping more Australians take practical steps toward better health.

What you can do this National Diabetes Week

• Get a health check. Visit your local for a free SiSU machine health check or take the AusDRisk online quiz to learn your five-year risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Talk to your GP or health professional about ways to support your health and prevent complications.
• Support calls for national action on diabetes prevention, better food labelling, and public education.

Preventing type 2 diabetes isn’t just a health priority, it’s an economic and social one. By acting now, we can reduce the toll of diabetes on millions of Australians and ensure a healthier future for the next generation.