Diabetes Australia has appointed Brett Fenton as its first Chief Health Officer marking a major step in strengthening clinical leadership and improving outcomes for people living with diabetes.

Mr Fenton joined Diabetes Australia in the newly created role in February.

The CHO is a senior clinical leadership position responsible for clinical governance and strategic health initiatives across the organisation.

In his new role, Mr Fenton will work closely with the Chief Medical Officer Professor David Simmons to deliver strong senior clinical oversight to Diabetes Australia’s work as the national peak body.

Group CEO Justine Cain said the appointment reflects the organisation’s commitment to improving care and outcomes for people living with diabetes.

“This is a significant milestone for Diabetes Australia and our members,” Ms Cain said. “The creation of a Chief Health Officer role strengthens our clinical governance and reinforces our focus on quality, safety and evidence-based leadership.”

Ms Cain said Mr Fenton brings a depth of experience that will benefit the organisation’s work.

“Brett has an outstanding track record as a clinician educator and health system leader,” she said. “His leadership will will have a positive impact for people living with diabetes and stronger integration across the health system.”

Mr Fenton said he was excited by the opportunity of serving as Diabetes Australia’s inaugural Chief Health Officer.

“I am honoured to take on the CHO role at a time when diabetes remains one of the most urgent and complex health challenges facing Australians,” Mr Fenton said.

“This role is about ensuring that everything we do as a national peak body is grounded in strong clinical governance and the latest evidence.

“I look forward to working closely with Diabetes Australia staff to strengthen partnerships across the health system and to support models of care that are integrated, equitable and focused on better outcomes for people living with diabetes.

“My priority will be to ensure that our clinical leadership continues to underpin our advocacy, programs and national reform agenda.”

Mr Fenton has served as a Director of Diabetes Australia since 2018 and most recently as Chair of the Risk Quality and Compliance Committee. He resigned his Directorship effective 23 January 2026 to take up the executive role.

He previously led multidisciplinary diabetes services across hospital and community settings and has held senior leadership roles across national policy professional education and digital health reform.

Mr Fenton was an Invited Expert Advisor to the National Diabetes Strategy 2021-2030 and has played a key role in advancing fairer technology access and integrated models of care.