Published: 6 November, 2025 World Diabetes Day is recognised globally on 14 November, and this year’s theme, Diabetes and wellbeing at work, highlights the importance of creating inclusive, supportive workplaces for people living with diabetes. This World Diabetes Day, we’re joining the global call to action: Know more and do more for diabetes at work. Why workplace support matters Everyone living with diabetes can thrive in their careers, and diabetes should not be a barrier to achieving your professional goals. Managing diabetes at work may involve additional planning, such as access to food, breaks, and medical supplies, to support your health and wellbeing throughout the day. When your workplace is informed and flexible, you’re better equipped to manage your diabetes confidently and safely. Here are some reasonable adjustments you can ask your employer to consider: Respecting privacy and confidentiality around health conditions Offering flexibility with breaks, meeting times, medical appointments and shift schedules Allowing additional breaks to support your diabetes management (e.g. for snacks or blood glucose checks) Providing a clean, private space to check blood glucose levels or administer insulin Installing a hypo action kit and first aid supplies at your workstation Providing a sharps disposal container for safe medical waste management Talking about diabetes at work Deciding whether to share information about your diabetes at work is a personal choice. In most roles, there’s no legal requirement to disclose health information. However, you may need to disclose your diabetes if: Your role involves safety-sensitive tasks (e.g. emergency services, construction, operating heavy machinery or public transport) Your diabetes affects your ability to perform essential job tasks. Some people choose to share this information to help their employer provide appropriate support, such as ensuring regular meal breaks or knowing how to respond during a hypo. Before sharing, it can be helpful to speak with your diabetes health professionals. They can support you in planning how to manage diabetes at work and discuss what adjustments might be useful. Know your rights Everyone has the right to feel safe, respected and supported at work. If you’re unsure about your rights or feel you’ve experienced discrimination, you can seek advice from: your state or territory equal opportunity and human rights commission your union delegate or professional association. These organisations can provide guidance on workplace rights, reasonable adjustments, and how to navigate conversations about health and support. Practical tips for managing diabetes at work Here are some simple, practical ways to support your wellbeing at work: Manage stress: Stress can affect blood glucose levels. Take regular breaks and consider flexible work arrangements to help balance your health and responsibilities. Educate your colleagues: If you feel comfortable, share information about diabetes to help build understanding and support. Inform your manager: If you haven’t already, consider discussing your diabetes with your manager so they can support your needs. Stay organised: Use reminders and plan your day around meetings to support your diabetes management. Be confident: Don’t be embarrassed about managing your diabetes at work. If colleagues are curious, it’s a great opportunity to raise awareness. Prepare for emergencies: If you use insulin, make sure your co-workers and first aid officers know how to recognise and respond to a hypo. Creating change together Employers and colleagues play a vital role in creating inclusive workplaces. By sharing your experiences and helping others learn more about diabetes, you can help build a safer, more supportive and empowering work environment. This World Diabetes Day, we encourage all Australians to start the conversation and take action. Together, we can build a future where people living with diabetes feel confident, respected and supported at work.
