Diabetes Australia has been appointed to deliver the Commonwealth-funded Insulin Pump Program (IPP).

This announcement will see Diabetes Australia deliver the program over the next 3 years on behalf of the Australian Government, ensuring continued access to life-changing diabetes technology for eligible young Australians living with type 1 diabetes.

The Insulin Pump Program was established by the Australian Government in 2008 and has been delivered by Breakthrough T1D Australia (formerly JDRF Australia) since its inception. Originally supporting children under 18 facing the greatest financial barriers to accessing insulin pump therapy, the program expanded in 2022 to include eligible young people up to 21 years of age following sustained advocacy by Breakthrough T1D and the type 1 diabetes community.

The program builds on more than 18 years of delivery by Breakthrough T1D Australia, which established and administered the IPP on behalf of the Australian Government from its inception in 2008.

The IPP provides fully subsidised insulin pumps to children and young people under the age of 21 who meet both financial and clinical eligibility criteria.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said delivering the IPP further demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to supporting people living with diabetes.

“An insulin pump isn’t just a medical device, it can be a life saver,” she said.

“Diabetes Australia is standing on the frontline of technology access by taking on the delivery of the IPP and we’re committed to doing so in the best interests of people living with diabetes.

“By removing significant upfront costs, this program improves access to pumps that would otherwise be financially out of reach for many families,” Ms Cain said.

Insulin pump therapy plays a critical role in supporting improved blood glucose management and enhancing quality of life. It reduces the daily burden of diabetes management by minimising the need for multiple daily injections and enabling more flexible routines for children and their families.

“Importantly, the IPP helps reduce stress for families, allowing them to focus more on their child’s overall health and wellbeing.

“Diabetes Australia will ensure continuity of access for all existing participants throughout the transition period, with no disruption to current support arrangements,” Ms Cain said.

Delivering the IPP reinforces Diabetes Australia’s commitment to improving outcomes and access to care for Australians living with diabetes, particularly children and young people who can benefit most from early access to advanced technology.

The program has a limited number of insulin pumps available each year, and meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee that a pump will be available at the time of application.  

Find out more here: https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/kids-and-teens/insulin-pump-program/