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National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework

Nurses play a vital role in supporting people living with diabetes at every stage of life. The National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework provides a nationally consistent standard for diabetes nursing competence.

Developed by the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) and funded through the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS), the Framework helps nurses build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to provide high-quality diabetes care and education. The Framework also supports ongoing professional development and helps nurses deliver person-centred care across different practice settings.

The Framework has three parts.

  • Part 1: Framework model and professional development pathway – Describes the four levels of diabetes nursing practice (foundation, proficient, specialist, and expert) and provides a pathway for ongoing learning.
  • Part two: Competency statements – Outlines the competencies and observable behaviours expected of nurses providing diabetes care at each practice level.
  • Part three: Knowledge and skill statements – Describes the knowledge and skills required at each practice level across key areas of diabetes care and management.
The cover of an NDSS booklet titled 'National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework' with the date range '2024-2028' printed below it. The main design consists of a large blue panel featuring a staircase-like arrangement of square blocks in the lower right corner, some of which contain photos of healthcare professionals and patients interacting.
National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework 2024–2026

The Framework supports nurses to advance in the field of diabetes care and education, with the long-term goal to improve community health.

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Build your diabetes nursing knowledge and skills

The National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework eLearning program helps nurses understand and apply the Framework in their everyday practice.

The program contains 6 interactive modules that provide practical guidance to support your professional development and help you navigate your diabetes nursing career with confidence.

Each module includes interactive learning activities supported by the Framework and accompanying workbook, helping you apply what you’ve learned directly to your workplace and professional goals. While the workbook complements the eLearning course, it can also be used as a standalone resource.

Benefits of doing the eLearning program

By completing the modules, you’ll learn how to:

  • understand the purpose, aims and practical application of the National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework
  • identify your current level of diabetes nursing practice and recognise opportunities for growth
  • reflect on your knowledge, skills and experience using the Framework’s competency standards
  • develop a personalised professional development plan to support your career progression
  • access NDSS resources and support services to better assist people living with diabetes.

The modules are endorsed by the Australian Diabetes Educators Association for CPD hours.

Strengthen your practice and support better diabetes outcomes

Whether you’re new to diabetes care or looking to advance your expertise, the National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework eLearning modules and workbook provide a structured pathway to develop your competence, support career progression and deliver high-quality diabetes care with confidence.

Further resources and information

An NDSS fact sheet titled
How to apply the National Diabetes Nursing Framework to your practice

Guidance for nurses about implementing the Framework, including assessment information.

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An NDSS fact sheet titled
About the National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework

This information sheet for nurses explains the National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework and how it will help them.

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An NDSS fact sheet titled
National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework – information for people living with diabetes

This information sheet for people living with diabetes explains the Framework and what they can expect their nurse to know depending on their level of expertise.

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The cover of an NDSS booklet titled 'National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework' with the date range '2024-2028' printed below it. The main design consists of a large blue panel featuring a staircase-like arrangement of square blocks in the lower right corner, some of which contain photos of healthcare professionals and patients interacting.
National Diabetes Nursing Education Framework 2024–2026

The Framework supports nurses to advance in the field of diabetes care and education, with the long-term goal to improve community health.

Download

If you require further information about these resources, please contact the Australian Diabetes Educators Association on 02 6173 1000 or email [email protected].