FEDERAL Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce is calling on the New England Electorate to have their say as part of the nation’s largest conversation about the best ways to prevent, treat and cure diabetes.

Mr Joyce said the opening of a national consultation process would help guide the Abbott Government’s development of a National Diabetes Strategy – an election commitment.

He said diabetes affected the lives of most people in some way, shape or form and this was a critical opportunity for all Australians to participate in finding the best ways to prevent, treat and cure this rapidly growing national problem at https://consultations.health.gov.au.  

“I encourage the community of the New England Electorate to take part in this conversation and contribute their thoughts on how diabetes affects them,” he said.

“We know it doesn’t just impact those who have the disease, it takes a heavy toll on their family and friends, their job, the sustainability of the health budget and our national prosperity.

“Over one million Australians are now living with diabetes, while hundreds of thousands more are either at high risk of contracting the disease or are living with it and don’t know.

“It’s critically important that we get a broad diversity of views. Whether you’re a carer, parent, employer, doctor, researcher or someone living with the disease, we want to hear your views, experiences and ideas about addressing this rapidly growing national problem.”

This national strategy will aim to prioritise Australia’s response to diabetes; identify the best approaches to addressing the impact of diabetes in the community; and position Australia as an international leader in diabetes prevention, management and research.

Comments received through this consultation will inform the National Diabetes Strategy, due for release late 2015. Consultation will close Friday May 17.