Community Support

Community Support

Type 1 diabetes has a huge impact on the physical and mental health of over 120,000 Australians. It’s like a ‘job’ and the day-to-day effort to manage it can become hard and frustrating, especially when the results are not what you hoped for.

Studies show that many people living with T1D experience worries, fears and other negative feelings at some stage – including diabetes distress and burnout. 

That’s why it’s important for people living with T1D to have access to a robust support system.  

We’re here to support you. Our community programs cater to a range of people in the T1D community, no matter your age or connection to diabetes, we will connect you with others who understand.  

Check out our initiatives below.  

Financial Assistance

Type 1 diabetes can be a financial burden on families but there is help available:

• Insulin Pumps – The Australian Government offers fully subsidised insulin pumps for eligible children under 18 years through the Insulin Pump Program administered by JDRF.
• Health Care Card – Some families with a child under 16 years can apply for a Health Care Card. The card allows prescription items and some medical services to be purchased at lower prices. You can check your eligibility here.
• Carers’ Allowance – Some families may qualify for a fortnightly Carers’ Allowance payment, which is assessed by Centrelink on an individual basis.
• National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) – Registration to the Federal Government’s NDSS allows diabetes supplies such as syringes, test strips and needles to be purchased at cheaper rates.
• Continuous Glucose Monitors the Australian Government is now providing access to fully subsidised continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) products, through the NDSS, to children and young people aged under 21 years who meet specific criteria. Refer to and talk to your healthcare professional.