A new national scheme providing free access to chronic wound care products for older Australians living with diabetes has officially launched, aiming to relieve the financial burden of chronic wound management.

The Chronic Wound Consumables Scheme (CWCS) is now delivering fully subsidised wound consumables, such as bandages, dressings and adhesives, to eligible people aged 65 and over living with diabetes who do not have access to other wound care schemes.

For First Nations people, who experience higher rates of diabetes and chronic wounds, the scheme is available from the age of 50.

The scheme is expected to support around 20,000 Australians each year. Currently, many people with chronic wounds pay approximately $4,000 annually for their essential wound supplies. Under the new scheme, patients will be able to receive the necessary products at no cost, either delivered directly to their homes or supplied through their healthcare provider.

Healthcare professionals across the country will be able to enrol eligible patients using an online portal. More than 3,500 providers have already registered for training to deliver the scheme, with numbers continuing to grow.

The Federal Government has allocated nearly $50 million to the initiative as part of broader efforts to improve access to Medicare and make essential health services more affordable.

Chronic wounds are a serious complication of diabetes, often requiring long-term treatment and regular dressing changes. Without appropriate care, they can lead to serious infections, reduced mobility and hospitalisation. The CWCS aims to reduce these risks by ensuring that cost is not a barrier to appropriate treatment.

The launch of this program marks a major development in equitable healthcare access for people living with diabetes and chronic wounds. The national rollout means people in all parts of Australia, including rural and remote areas, can access the products they need for effective wound care.

The scheme recognises the significant impact of chronic wounds on older Australians and seeks to ease the physical, emotional and financial toll they create. By removing out-of-pocket costs for consumables, the program supports earlier intervention and ongoing treatment, which can improve healing rates and overall health outcomes for those affected.

The CWCS is now operational, and eligible individuals are encouraged to speak with their healthcare provider to find out more about enrolling in the scheme.