Diabetes Australia has this week extended its gratitude to retiring Federal MPs Graham Perrett and Rowan Ramsey for their tireless advocacy and commitment to the diabetes community in the Australian Parliament.  

As co-chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes group, they played a critical role in advancing diabetes awareness, policy, and access to life-changing technology for people living with diabetes. 

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain commended both MPs for their leadership and dedication to improving the lives of Australians affected by diabetes. 

“Graham Perrett and Rowan Ramsey have been fearless and passionate champions for the diabetes community. Their bipartisan support for the sector has helped drive important initiatives, including securing greater access to diabetes technology such as Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) for people living with type 1 diabetes.  

“For nearly a decade, they demonstrated their commitment to reducing the burden of diabetes. Their collaboration shows what can be achieved when people come together with the common goal of improving the health of all Australians. 

“Their work has made a real and lasting impact on peoples’ lives,” Ms Cain said. 

Both MPs have now delivered their valedictory speeches in Parliament. 

“Graham and Rowan leave behind an extraordinary legacy of advocacy, and Diabetes Australia thanks them for their unwavering support,” Ms Cain said. 

“We look forward to engaging with new co-chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes in the next Parliament.” 

Tasmania’s stunning landscapes will once again play host to Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025, a three-day cycling event to raise funds and awareness in support of people living with diabetes.

From Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 2, cyclists of all levels will have the chance to ride alongside Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, who lives with type 1 diabetes, and help make a lasting difference in their community.

With only one month to go until the riders start pedalling, Deputy Premier Barnett is encouraging the community to get involved.

“Pollie Pedal is more than a cycling event. It’s a statement of hope and solidarity,” said Deputy Premier Barnett, who is a passionate advocate for diabetes awareness.

“As someone living with type 1 diabetes, I know firsthand how critical it is to support the people and families affected by this condition.

“The event not only raises much-needed funds for diabetes, but it also brings people together. I’m honoured to be part of it again this year and encourage everyone to register or donate,” he said.

This is Pollie Pedal’s 18^th ride and it has become a cornerstone event in Tasmania, raising over $850,000 since 2006 to fund vital diabetes programs and research. Participants will traverse picturesque coastal roads and rolling hills, uniting for a shared mission to reduce the impact of diabetes on individuals and families.

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO, Justine Cain, applauded the Tasmanian community’s enduring support for Pollie Pedal.

“This event embodies the spirit of Tasmanians: generous, united, and driven by purpose,” Ms Cain said. “Every kilometre ridden and every dollar donated takes us closer to a future free from diabetes.

“We’re so proud to stand with Guy and all the participants who inspire us with their dedication and enthusiasm.”

This event comes at a time when two million Australians are living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, and even more are living with prediabetes, including 88,000 people in Tasmania.

“Diabetes, if not managed appropriately, can lead to devastating complications such as limb amputation, kidney disease, heart attack and vision loss,” Ms Cain said.

“Worryingly, rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade.

“We need urgent action to stem the tide of this epidemic and support people who are living with diabetes. Community events like Pollie Pedal support us to do that important work,” she said.

Russell James is a Registered Nurse as well as a lecturer at the University of Tasmania and has a strong family history of type 1 diabetes. He lives in Hobart with his wife and two boys, William, 11, and Xavier, 10. Both Russell and Xavier live with type one diabetes.

“My family’s journey with type 1 diabetes spans generations: my father, my aunt, myself, and now Xavier. Initiatives like Pollie Pedal raise awareness and funds that will help break this cycle for future generations,” Dr James said.

“Cycling alongside Xavier is a powerful reminder that diabetes doesn’t define us. With the right support, education and determination, we can overcome any obstacle and keep moving forward.”

Deputy Premier Barnett, Xavier and Russell James are pictured above after speaking with journalists today at a press conference on the lawns of Hobart’s Parliament House to raise awareness of the upcoming ride.

Pollie Pedal isn’t just for seasoned cyclists; it’s for anyone passionate about making a difference. The event offers an opportunity to experience Tasmania’s breathtaking scenery while contributing to a cause that affects so many.

To register as a rider, sponsor, or donate, visit Pollie Pedal 2025 on Diabetes Australia website or email PolliePedal@diabetesaustralia.com.au.

Join us in the journey toward healthier, happier futures for all Tasmanians.

Fast Facts about Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025:

• Dates: Friday, February 28 to Sunday, March 2, 2025
• Who can participate? Cyclists of all skill levels
• Funds raised since 2006: Over $850,000
• Cause: Supporting Tasmanians living with diabetes and funding prevention efforts

Together, let’s pedal for change.

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia 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, researchers and the community.

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

Counterfeit Ozempic-labelled pens are being sold in Australia. 

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Australian Border Force (ABF) have detected the fake Ozempic-labelled pens.  

The TGA is warning people to look for spelling errors, instruction leaflets not in English, unsealed packaging, or changes in medicine size, shape, or appearance. These are indicators that the medicine has not been produced by the original manufacturer or is being illegally sold in the wrong market. 

The two products which have prompted the alert both appear to be relabelled insulin pens. The end ap is blue (not grey), the dosage barrel is in a different place, the sticker is not adhering properly to the pen, and the packaging is poor quality. 

There has already been a life-threatening incident in Australia with a person using a fake pen labelled as Ozempic which contained insulin. This pen was bought overseas. Unintended use of insulin can cause dangerously low life-threatening blood glucose levels.  

The batch numbers labelled on the pens - NPSG234 detected by ABF and JS7A925 from the adverse event – have been confirmed as not genuine batch numbers by Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic.  

The ABF said the products were purchased online from an overseas website and imported under the personal importation scheme.  

Vulnerable people living in Melbourne will have better access to diabetes education thanks to a new partnership between Diabetes Australia and the Salvation Army.

As the national peak body, Diabetes Australia is joining with the Salvation Army in this critical initiative to support vulnerable people who are at risk of, or living with, diabetes.

This collaboration comes at a time when almost two million Australians are living with diagnosed and undiagnosed type 2 diabetes, and there are growing barriers to healthcare access among those experiencing homelessness.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said the partnership was about delivering essential diabetes care to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

“Diabetes is hurting our most vulnerable communities. It’s a condition that, if not managed, leads to devastating complications such as limb amputation, kidney disease, heart attack and vision loss,” Ms Cain said.

“Rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade, so we need new ideas and new partnerships that will make a tangible difference in people’s lives across Australia.

“As the national diabetes peak body, Diabetes Australia is committed to supporting all local communities impacted by diabetes across the country. During the next year, we are aiming to develop similar programs in other locations around Australia to ensure our most vulnerable get the support they need,” she said.

More than 2,500 people in the Melbourne region are living with type 2 diabetes, with statewide figures across Victoria showing more than 325,000 people are impacted by the condition.

Through the partnership, a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE) is attending the Magpie Nest Café in the Melbourne CBD each week and provides diabetes health services and information for people in the community experiencing significant vulnerability.

Salvation Army spokesperson Brendan Nottle said diabetes had become a growing concern for vulnerable communities in the area.

“Undiagnosed diabetes is an increasing issue amongst people who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness. The partnership with Diabetes Australia is literally helping save lives,” Mr Nottle said.

“We are deeply indebted to Diabetes Australia and all our partners who are engaged in critical work with some of the most vulnerable people in our city. On many occasions, they are helping keep people alive.”

For the first time, an Aboriginal Health Practitioner has qualified as a Credentialled Diabetes Educator (CDE).

Louise Gilbey, who lives and works in Mount Isa, has become the first to qualify using her profession as an Aboriginal Health Practitioner to undertake the CDE credentialling program.

Louise’s achievement was made possible by the Australian Diabetes Educators Association’s (ADEA’s) scholarship program which supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners to undertake post graduate studies in diabetes education and care and ADEA’s rigorous credentialling program.

Louise is a proud Alwayarre woman who has worked as an Aboriginal Health Practitioner for more than 20 years. She travels throughout Queensland’s Far West, providing expert diabetes advice and treatment in some of Australia’s most remote communities.

“Becoming a Credentialled Diabetes Educator has always been my dream, and with the assistance of a scholarship, and support from family, friends and colleagues, this dream is now a reality,” Louise said.

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO Justine Cain congratulated Louise on her achievement and on completing the Graduate Certificate in Diabetes Education and Management.

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are more than three times as likely to live with diabetes and nearly five times more likely to be hospitalised with diabetes-related complications,” Ms Cain said.

“Louise’s qualification is an important step towards increasing the numbers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island CDEs to meet the need for expert local diabetes services.

“Research has shown repeatedly that relevant and culturally appropriate diabetes care is most effective when delivered to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people.

“Louise’s credentialling is an important milestone in the fight to improve services for people living with diabetes, especially in remote locations, where the need is most urgent,” she said.   

Australian Diabetes Educators Association CEO Susan Davidson said the 1,000 hours Louise had completed to achieve accreditation reflected the high level of commitment and practical experience needed to become a CDE.

“We are so proud to welcome Louise as a CDE,” Susan said.

“CDEs are recognised internationally as highly qualified diabetes professionals. ADEA’s scholarship program, which started in 2020, recognises the important role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners in reducing the burden of diabetes in First Nations communities.  

“Every day, CDEs around Australia provide the expert help people need to live long and healthy lives with diabetes. Louise will continue that practice for the people of Mount Isa and beyond.”

Stephanie Ratcliffe, diagnosed with type 1 diabetes when she was six, is at the Paris Olympics preparing to represent Australia in the Hammer Throw. Her Mum and Dad, David and Monica Ratcliffe, are as proud as any parents could be.

With the qualification round starting on Sunday, August 4, and the finals scheduled for August 6, Stephanie’s Dad contacted Diabetes Australia to reassure our community that while he and his wife understand being parents of a child diagnosed with type 1 diabetes can be challenging for both the child and parents, there are no boundaries to what can be achieved with a positive attitude.

Stephanie, 23, is one shining example.

“Stephanie has graduated with a Harvard degree in Neuroscience and is currently achieving a 4.0 GPA while completing her Master’s in Business Analytics at the University of Georgia,” David wrote. To achieve this, Stephanie has lived independently overseas since she was 18.

Stephanie uses an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor to manage her diabetes. She credits her parents as the most influential people in her life.

“They are the ones who have been there for me from day one, always reminding me that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to. They have opened up so many opportunities for me. My achievements will always be a tribute to them.”

Cheryl’s journey with type 2 diabetes began 15 years ago when she was diagnosed unexpectedly during a routine blood test.

“It turned my world upside down. I suddenly had to think consciously about everything I put in my mouth, whether it might raise my blood sugars, how many carbohydrates there were. The counting carbohydrates drives me mad.” 

Following extensive research and discussions with her doctor, a year after her diagnosis Cheryl decided to start insulin therapy.  

Cheryl first trialed using a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device five years ago. Using a CGM allows Cheryl to monitor her blood glucose trends in real time. However, as a pensioner, Cheryl can only afford to wear a CGM for two weeks every three to four months. While CGM devices are now subsidised for all people with type 1 diabetes, they are not funded for people who live with type 2 diabetes, including people who use insulin like Cheryl.  

“I would dearly love to be able to wear a CGM 365 days per year.” 

Cheryl is concerned that without affordable access to a CGM, she is unable to keep her blood glucose levels within the target range, which gives her the best chance of preventing complications. “I’ve been trying for ten years, and it’s just not possible without the CGM.”  

Watch Cheryl’s story:

I am 11 years old and live on the Gold Coast. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes after a normal weekend. On the Sunday I had a really good thickshake with ice cream and all the toppings, but then sort of passed out on the couch, like I was super tired.

That night Mum and Dad noticed I’d lost some weight and on reflection thought about how much water I’d been drinking lately. The next day we saw a GP who tried two finger testers but got no number, so we were sent to the Emergency Department at Tweed Hospital and I was diagnosed there. My blood glucose was 44 and my ketones were high. I was in DKA. It was really difficult to get a line into my veins because I was really weak and so skinny. 

Since diagnosis, after a great week in hospital with heaps of training, I haven’t really looked back! I play Rugby League for Tugun Seahawks, I play kit drums in three bands at school and I have a very active social life!  

I have been using a pump for nearly three years. Using a pump means I don’t have to give myself a needle every time I want to eat. It also means I can be more independent from my parents. Now I know a bit more about how to use my pump I can spend time at friends’ houses and go on school camps, all without having to worry about the needles, safety of needles, and the injections.

At the moment I can have a pump because of Mum and Dad’s health insurance (which is in excess of $600 per month). Sometimes I worry about what kind of job I will get because if I don’t get a good job I won’t be able to afford the insurance I need for a pump.

If the government make accessing a pump more affordable I can grow up confident that I will have the option to choose the best care for myself, the care I want, whether it be needles or pump therapy. I also know lots of DiaBuddies who can’t afford insurance and don’t have a pump. It would be nice if they got access to one too.

Two weeks before my 30^th birthday I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.

I had been losing weight, felt very tired and could not seem to quench my thirst. I thought perhaps I had developed type 2 diabetes as it was during the COVID-19 lockdowns and I had been eating a lot of high carb food. But my blood test showed type 1 diabetes.

It has been a big learning curve. I have had to learn how to count carbs, know what is in the food I eat, and adjust my lifestyle to include giving upwards of four needles a day. 

Since July 2022 when the government began to subsidise the sensors, I have used a CGM to track my glucose. But I have never used a pump due to the price.

I know there is technology available that would be greatly beneficial to my daily life, but the cost of type 1 diabetes is high enough already without having to try and find money for devices. 

Not having affordable access to technology has placed a huge burden on my mental health as I am always thinking about how to manage my diabetes. This includes having to inject myself with insulin multiple times a day, even when out in public, and going to the restrooms to inject so I don’t offend anyone. 

If the government made access more affordable, I would feel so much more supported. It would help prevent long term effects of hyperglycaemia, which in turn would mean less trips to the hospital or my GP. It would also reduce the mental load and really help me avoid burnout and the need for psychological appointments.

I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in August 2023. It came as quite a surprise as I had no idea that adults could get diabetes.

It was very challenging at first because they couldn’t confirm immediately if I was type 1 or type 2, and that period of uncertainly felt like I was in limbo. Once they confirmed type 1, it was like being transported into a completely different world where everything had changed. I just had to accept it and move forward.

I was initially doing fingerpricks after I went home from the hospital but as I am very interested in technology I did a lot of research after my diagnosis and decided to try the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device. I received a trial directly from the Dexcom website and, for a couple of weeks, I wore both Dexcom and another CGM. Not having to scan with the Dexcom G6 made it an easy choice for me.

Being able to monitor my glucose levels is very helpful for managing my condition and the tech enthusiast in me loves having access to all the data a CGM provides. It’s amazing to be able to see what my body is doing in real-time, something that most people never ever think about. It allows me to learn so much more about my body than I ever would have otherwise. For example, seeing how simple activities like hanging the washing can affect my glucose is fascinating.

With CGM, I’ve been able to integrate all the data into a live display at home. We have three devices around the house showing my glucose levels. This setup allows my partner and I to monitor my levels without constantly looking at my phone which helps me avoid unnecessary distractions.

The data technology provides is very empowering. I’m fortunate to have been diagnosed with diabetes when access to modern technology was available. I’m very grateful to have the subsidies we have in Australia, but pump technology is expensive and still out of reach for many people.

As someone who is passionate about technology – I host a podcast interviewing people about science, technology, engineering and maths, and all the amazing and inspiring things that they do – I find it frustrating seeing new innovations being available overseas while they have yet to be approved in Australia.