Widely-respected Kamilaroi-Yuwaalaraay diabetes educator Grace Ward has been appointed to the position of Elder Advocate at Diabetes Australia.

The newly established leadership and advocacy position will provide cultural advice and guidance directly to the executive and leadership team, as well as across the organisation.

Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said Ms Ward’s appointment to this important new role would contribute to improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with diabetes, and those at risk.

“Grace’s previous experience at the Menzies School of Health Research and then at Diabetes Queensland has equipped her with a wealth of knowledge in facilitating innovative culturally-appropriate First Nations diabetes education programs. 

“This is a critical area of focus for Diabetes Australia and I can think of no one better suited to take on this leadership role,” Ms Cain said.

Ms Ward said she was passionate about building a better future for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people and reducing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

“To achieve better health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, it is imperative that programs and resources are developed and delivered with a strong cultural focus,” Ms Ward said.

“Diabetes Australia is committed to achieving this with advice and direction from First Nations communities and by increasing the First Nations workforce within the organisation.”

The new Elder Advocate role is critical in Diabetes Australia’s efforts to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture across the organisation and engage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across Australia.