This National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June), Diabetes Australia is putting a spotlight on the urgent need to improve type 2 diabetes care and prevention among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
The organisation’s first Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) supports this year’s theme, “Bridging Now to Next,” which encourages Australians to learn from the past, act in the present, and work together for a better future. The RAP focuses on building stronger, ongoing relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations.
Diabetes Australia is calling on the diabetes community to work hand in hand to help close the health gap. Type 2 diabetes remains a leading factor in the shorter life expectancy of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples compared to non-Indigenous Australians.
One of the key actions in the RAP is creating a detailed list of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations and businesses across Australia. This internal tool helps staff connect with culturally appropriate suppliers and build meaningful partnerships.
As part of its efforts, Diabetes Australia has joined Reconciliation Tasmania. This membership will help shape a local Acknowledgement of Country for its Tasmanian offices and build similar efforts in other states. Staff will also take part in cultural safety workshops and community events, such as the NRW Breakfast, to deepen engagement and support improved diabetes care.
Earlier this month, the organisation held its annual National Gathering of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health professionals and diabetes workers in Melbourne. The event served as a platform to share success stories and address current challenges.
Diabetes Australia also observes important dates like Close the Gap Day. Staff are encouraged to join local events and continue learning about Australia’s shared history and the need for reconciliation.
Advocacy remains a core focus. The “Unite in the Fight for Tech” campaign continues to push for better access to diabetes technology, especially for high-need groups like Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Alongside major projects, smaller initiatives are making a difference too. These include efforts to improve food security in remote communities and forming new partnerships in education and community services.
This year’s Reconciliation Week is a chance to reaffirm that prevention and early action can protect future generations of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from the burden of type 2 diabetes. For Diabetes Australia, that mission is central to its role in advancing reconciliation.
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