Australians living with type 1 diabetes will soon have access to Abbott Diabetes Care’s FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus continuous glucose monitor (CGM) as a standalone sensor, without needing an automatic insulin device (AID) connection.  

From 1 October, the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus will be available through the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) subsidy, meaning every Australian living with type 1 diabetes will be able to access the device.

myLoop System users have had access to FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus since 1 December 2025, with compatibility for the Omnipod 5 system to be announced soon.

People living with type 1 diabetes considering the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus are encouraged to check compatibility with their smartphone prior to switching. FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus will remain available to people who don’t have a compatible smartphone, or who prefer to use the standalone device reader. NovoPen 6 users will also need to consider their preferences and compatibility with FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus prior to switching devices.

To switch, NDSS registrants will need to book an appointment with their authorised diabetes healthcare professional (in-person or telehealth) who will complete the relevant NDSS CGM access update on the registrant’s behalf.

FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors last 15 days and will only be available through the NDSS subsidy, not for direct purchase online from Abbott. Up to six sensors, equivalent to three months’ supply, can be ordered per transaction using NDSS code 996, with a co-payment of $17.90 per sensor where applicable. Annual access limits apply in line with the manufacturer’s recommended usage, and device issues should be reported according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

People using diabetes technology are strongly advised to have an individualised back-up plan in place and know what steps to take if a device is not working as expected. That plan should be developed with an endocrinologist or credentialled diabetes educator.  Anyone experiencing difficulties with their diabetes technology should contact the device manufacturer, and seek advice from their healthcare professional, as soon as possible.