World Diabetes Day Act early on diabetes — it can happen to anyone This World Diabetes Day, 14 November, we are helping Australians learn the signs, know their risk, and act early. People living with or at risk of diabetes are at the heart of everything we do. Prevention is where so much of our work begins, but our commitment doesn’t stop there. For people already living with diabetes, we are there every day. Whatever the type, finding diabetes early means getting the right care sooner. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition that often develops suddenly, and most families have no history of it. Type 2 diabetes is a different condition that can happen to anyone and often develops without obvious symptoms. There are other types of diabetes too, including gestational, LADA, MODY, type3c, and more. Know the signs, know your risk, and act early. Learn more More than 300 Australians develop diabetes every day (1) Up to 58% of type 2 diabetes may be prevented or delayed with lifestyle changes (2) Preventing type 2 diabetes Could you be at risk? Type 2 diabetes can happen to anyone Type 2 diabetes can happen to anyone, at any age, and often develops without obvious symptoms. That’s why acting early matters. What you can’t change Some things that raise your risk of type 2 diabetes are out of your control, including your age, your family history, and your ethnicity. Having one of these doesn’t mean you will develop type 2 diabetes, and not having them doesn’t mean you won’t. What you may be able to influence Evidence shows up to 58% of type 2 diabetes may be delayed or prevented for some people, even people with prediabetes. Everyday habits like what you eat and drink, how much you move, your sleep, stress, smoking and alcohol all play a role. Everyone’s situation is different, so talk to your doctor before making big changes to your diet or physical activity. Find out your risk in a few minutes, then talk to your doctor or call 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) (1800 773 8368) for free information and support. Resources and support Understanding your risk of type 2 diabetes Share your story through our Spark Change platform and have your say on what affordable access to AID would mean to you and your quality of life. Type 2 diabetes can happen to anyone. Take our short risk assessment to find out where you stand, so you can act early. Check your risk Know the early signs of type 1 diabetes Share your story through our Spark Change platform and have your say on what affordable access to AID would mean to you and your quality of life. Type 1 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes in children, and most families have no history of it. Knowing the 4Ts means you can act early: Tired. Thirsty. Thinner. Toilet. Learn the 4Ts Get support Share your story through our Spark Change platform and have your say on what affordable access to AID would mean to you and your quality of life. Whether you want to reduce your risk or need help right now, our prevention programs and telehealth clinic are here for you. Learn more Book an appointment Join the conversation this World Diabetes Day World Diabetes Day is held every year on 14 November. The 2026–27 global theme, set by the International Diabetes Federation, is Early action on diabetes. It highlights the importance of acting early on all types of diabetes, from earlier diagnosis to reducing risk. Almost half of people living with diabetes worldwide are undiagnosed.(3) At Diabetes Australia, we’re helping prevent all types of diabetes through education, early testing, research and innovation, and community advocacy. This World Diabetes Day, we’re sharing resources to help you act early. Download campaign resources and find out how to get involved. World Diabetes Day resources Supported by References: NDSS Data Snapshots 2025 Tuomilehto J, Lindström J, Eriksson JG, Valle TT, Hämäläinen H, Ilanne-Parikka P, et al. Prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus by changes in lifestyle among subjects with impaired glucose tolerance. N Engl J Med. 2001;344: 1343–1350. doi:10.1056/NEJM200105033441801. World Diabetes Day 2026, International Diabetes Federation
