Tracey Roberts (Pearce, Australian Labor Party) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the member for Moreton for this motion. I acknowledge the 106 advocates for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, JDRF, and the advocates in the chamber this afternoon. It is a privilege to recognise this significant occasion as we unite to advocate for a cause that touches the lives of more than 130,000 Australians living with type 1 diabetes. This includes my beautiful grandson, who was diagnosed at age 10. His treatments continue to be monitored and amended with his growth, so this is very close to my heart. I am very proud to wear the blue JDRF T-shirt.

I have joined my grandson on JDRF walks, and would like to give a special shout-out to the amazing WA team of Dakota Edmiston, Louise and Sabine Murray, Scott and Digby Price, and alsoto the hardworking Mel Eveille and Sydney Yovic for their excellent work and their Kids in the House initiative. Together with their families, these advocates have travelled from around the nation to share their stories to make a compelling case for the Type 1 Diabetes Clinical Research Network. I want to commend each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in working with members and senators across Australia. Your advocacy has not gone unnoticed.

The research conducted has provided hope—a beacon in what can often feel like a daunting journey. The advances made through this research are not just numbers or statistics; they represent real lives, real families and real futures that are being transformed through science and innovation.

Thursday 14 November marked World Diabetes Day—a day when a passionate and articulate community raised awareness about diabetes and stressed its advocacy for research that will lead to better treatments, early detection methods and ultimately a cure.

I'd also like to acknowledge the valuable work in the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport. Under the leadership of the member for Macarthur, this committee has conducted an inquiry into diabetes that yielded bipartisan recommendations. These recommendations focus on critical areas such as research, early detection and prevention strategies, and expanding access to essential diabetes technologies. The commitment shown by this committee reflects a growing recognition that addressing type 1 diabetes is not just a health issue; it is an absolute imperative for our society.

To the advocates who have travelled great distances to be here today: your courage in sharing your personal stories is inspiring. Each narrative adds depth to our understanding and reinforces the importance of collective advocacy efforts. You are not just representatives of your own experience; you embody the hopes and dreams of countless others affected by this condition.

We understand that research holds the key to unlocking new possibilities for those living with type 1 diabetes. It is through continued investment in research that we can pave the way for innovative treatments that will enhance the quality of life throughout your life, and your message has been heard loud and clear.

Diabetes Australia has expressed strong support for the recent federal budget measures that will significantly benefit individuals who are living with type 1 diabetes. Key highlights include investment of $3.7 million to subsidise insulin pumps for financially disadvantaged Australians under the age of 21. This initiative aims to enhance access to vital diabetes management technologies to ensure that young people can effectively manage their condition without facing financial hardship. Additionally, the budget allocates $6.5 million to support the type 1 diabetes clinical research network, facilitating a number of research projects that are crucial for advancing treatment options and improving health outcomes.

The Albanese Labor government budget provisions represents a significant commitment to supporting Australians with type 1 diabetes, addressing both immediate needs and long-term health outcomes to enhance access to essential medical devices and research funding.

In closing: let us remember that our fight is far from over. The path ahead may be challenging, but together with advocates, families and researchers we can forge a future where diabetes no longer dictates the lives of those affected by it. Thank you once again for being here today. It's so incredibly important. Thank you for your advocacy and for your unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of those living with type 1 diabetes. Together we can create lasting change. It's so important, and it needs to be done. The sight of blue T-shirts with JDRF on them is absolutely heartwarming, and it's great to see each and every one of you. Thank you so much.

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