Three Australians who have contributed enormously to the diabetes cause have been recognised for their work in the 2016 Australia Day honours:

• Dr Susan Alberti
• Prof Jeffrey Flack
• Ms Joan Barrett.

Diabetes Australia CEO Professor Greg Johnson congratulated all 2016 recipients for their efforts, dedication and commitment to diabetes.

“It is wonderful to see these highly worthy individuals recognised for their dedication to diabetes research, care, fundraising and advocacy,†said Professor Greg Johnson. “Diabetes is fast becoming the biggest threat to Australia’s health, around 1.7 million Australians have diabetes and 280 Australians develop diabetes everyday. Their efforts will help Australia to scale up the fight against diabetes.â€

Dr Susan Alberti (AC)

Dr Susan Alberti was appointed a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC). Susan has long been recognised for her philanthropic giving to diabetes research and as a strong campaigner for type 1 diabetes. Susan was recognised for her eminent service to the community, particularly through philanthropic and fundraising support for a range of medical research, education and sporting organisations, as an advocate for improved health care services for the disadvantaged, and to young women as a role model and mentor. Last year, Susan spoke at the Diabetes Australia Type 1 Diabetes and New Technologies event at Parliament House in Canberra.

Professor Jeffrey Ronald Flack (AM)

Former Diabetes Australia Vice President Professor Jeffrey Ronald Flack was awarded Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his life-long contribution to diabetes research and management.

Professor Flack was instrumental in establishing the Australian National Diabetes Information Audit and Bench-marking and was the Chair of the National Diabetes Data Working Group.

He is currently the head of the Diabetes Centre at Bankstown Hospital and was previously the director of the Diabetes Centre at Lidcombe between 1986 and 1992.

Joan Barrett

Diabetes Queensland member Joan Barrett was recognised for her lifetime contribution to diabetes awareness. Joan lives with type 1 diabetes and is a strong advocate in North Queensland; she was nominated for the 2016 Citizen of the Year.