Guy Barnett: National Diabetes Week

The Liberal Government remains committed to supporting people with diabetes. Today, as Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier and a Diabetes Australia Ambassador, I officially launched National Diabetes Week at Parliament House.

At the launch, Kellion medals were presented to those who have lived with diabetes for 50 years. As a person with type 1 diabetes, I understand on a personal level the importance of raising awareness of diabetes within the community.

Six Tasmanians develop diabetes every day, with a further 44,000 Tasmanians at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This rate is of concern to the Liberal Government and more so for the individuals, their families and the public health system. National Diabetes Week helps raise awareness of this largely preventable disease and ensures the quality of life for people living with diabetes.

It is this Government’s target to ensure Tasmania has the healthiest population in Australia by 2025.

The Liberal Government commends the ongoing work conducted by Diabetes Tasmania and will continue to work with the diabetes community into the future.
Guy Barnett, Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier