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About diabetes

Do you need to know more about diabetes and how it may impact you or someone you know.

What is diabetes?

Diabetes occurs when the pancreas cannot make insulin, or when there is not enough insulin, and/or the insulin produced does not work effectively.

If you or someone you know has diabetes, read on to understand what diabetes is, the different types of diabetes people can have, and what to consider when managing diabetes.

Read more about

Information for

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples

Caring for someone with diabetes

Caring for someone with diabetes

People with an intellectual disability

People with an intellectual disability

Supporting older people with diabetes

Supporting older people with diabetes

Diabetes facts and figures

The NDSS has diabetes data snapshots and an Australian Diabetes Map that provide information on the prevalence of diabetes in Australia.


The information here is meant to be helpful as a general guide. It is not a substitute for medical advice and it should not be used to change medical therapy. Talk to your health professional about your individual medical needs.

Diabetes Australia acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and Custodians of this Country. We recognise their connection to land, waters, winds and culture. We pay the upmost respect to them, their cultures and to their Elders, past and present. We are committed to improving health outcomes for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people affected by diabetes and those at risk.

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