New data from self-serve health check stations reveals as many as one in three Queenslanders could have risk factors that they should discuss with their health professional. 

The data reinforces the need for greater access to early screening, an area that’s being addressed through a pilot partnership between Diabetes Australia, Target Australia, and SiSU Health, that could help people catch their risk of chronic conditions sooner. 

The data also highlights the need for preventative screening that’s accessible and affordable, and reduces stigma for consumers. 

Some of the risk factors identified included high blood pressure, very high body mass index (BMI, greater than 35), and type 2 diabetes risk, as measured by AUSDRISK criteria. 

The findings also highlight the significant potential of preventative screening to reduce complications, benefiting individuals and easing pressure on the health system.  

Health check stations are self-serve TGA-registered medical devices that can provide validated screening results in minutes, which can give baseline health data which supports conversations with health professionals. 

Thanks to the partnership, health check stations have been available in selected Target stores in South Australia for 4 weeks and so far almost 5,000 people have undergone a health check. 

The partnership now has 10 stations available across selected Target stores in Queensland, allowing shoppers to check things like blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight, body composition, and risk of developing type 2 diabetes (against AUSDRISK criteria), all discreetly delivered directly by secure app.  

Currently, almost 260,000 Queenslanders live with type 2 diabetes, with a further 102,500 estimated to be living with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Nationally, 2 million Australians are living with all types of diabetes.  

Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO Justine Cain said the initiative was an important step forward in exploring new ways to make preventive health more accessible to the community.  

“These early numbers strongly suggest that we’re taking the right steps in getting preventative healthcare out into the community. It’s never too early or too late to take your health seriously,” Ms Cain said.  

“We know that delivering an easy-to-access, stigma free health check could be all that someone needs to get life-changing health data. 

“A five-minute health check could be the best thing you put in your shopping basket today. 

“Millions of Australians are either living with or at risk of type 2 diabetes, and many don’t realise it.  By partnering with a trusted brand like Target, we have a powerful opportunity to reach people earlier. Early detection is one of the most powerful tools we have to help people take control of their health.” 

Ms Cain said the partnership with Target reflects Diabetes Australia’s commitment to innovative approaches to prevention.  

“These health stations at Target stores provide a simple way for people to learn their risk, track their results, and, if needed, seek support early through their GP or health professional. Small steps like this can make a big difference.” 

Target will host the health stations in 10 participating Queensland stores, in addition to the 10 already-deployed locations in South Australia, as part of the pilot, providing customers with a convenient five-minute check while they shop.  

Kmart Group (Kmart and Target) Chief Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Officer Alexandra Staley said Target is proud to partner with Diabetes Australia to bring accessible health solutions into everyday retail environments.  

“At Target, we’re committed to supporting our local communities. By hosting these health stations in our stores, we’re helping make it easier for customers to access simple, free health checks as part of their everyday routines.”  

“This pilot reflects our broader focus on creating positive community impact — using our national store network to help explore ways to remove barriers to early detection and support better health outcomes for Australians.”  

The health checks have already proven successful in other settings, with thousands of Australians using health stations each year to proactively monitor their health.  

Machines are now available in Target stores across Queensland. Participating stores include: Bundaberg, Carindale, Strathpine, Rockhampton, Morayfield, Ipswich, Browns Plains, Mt Gravatt, Mt Ommaney, Runaway Bay.