Rowan Ramsey (Grey, Liberal Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Diabetes Australia is 60 years old, and last week in the Great Hall in this place we held a 60th birthday celebration. Diabetes Australia is a wonderful organisation with wonderful partners like the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the DANII Foundation, and they were all there. We were privileged to be addressed by Susan Alberti AC, a resolute, determined and inspirational foe of diabetes whose daughter was claimed by the disease. The member for Moreton and I are the co-chairs of the Parliamentary Friends of Diabetes Group, which I prefer to call the enemies of diabetes. For us Diabetes Australia is a pleasure to work with as we strive together to raise awareness of the issues.

Diabetes Australia is chaired by the former member for Pearce, Judi Moylan, who was unfortunately unable to attend on the night. CEO Greg Johnson was there and reminded us that there are an estimated two million Australians living with diabetes. It is the sleeping giant of health. It is a sobering fact that it is the leading cause of blindness, of amputation and of coronary heart disease. However, Diabetes Australia and its partners have been successful, with the establishment of the Diabetes Support Foundation, the support service; $35 million to clinical trials research; its constant glucose monitors; and, of course, the establishment of a national diabetes strategy. Well done, Diabetes Australia. (Time expired)