1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) is a free, national type 2 diabetes prevention information service provided by Diabetes Australia. It is designed to help Australians at risk of developing type 2 diabetes understand their risk and take steps which may prevent or delay the onset of the condition. 

This service is for anyone who: 

• Is concerned about their risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 
• Wants practical information on how to reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes. 
• Is interested in connecting with support services, including free prevention programs offered locally across Australia.

The service provides:  

• Guidance: Information to help you understand type 2 diabetes and how to reduce your risk of developing the condition. 
• Localised Referrals: Connection to free, state/territory-specific diabetes prevention programs and services. 
• Resources: Access to practical guides and materials to help reduce your risk and improve your overall health through lifestyle changes. 

You can access 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) in two ways: 

• Phone: Call the helpline on 1800PREVENT (1800 773 8368). Operating hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (local time), excluding public holidays. 
• Online: Visit for 24/7 access to prevention resources and tools. 

When you contact 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes), our trained team can refer you to prevention programs, health coaching, or other local services that can support your health journey. 

For some people, the onset of type 2 diabetes may be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes. 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) will connect you with trusted, evidence-based advice to help you improve your health before type 2 diabetes becomes a concern. Plus, it’s free and available across Australia. 

Yes! The 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) service is completely free, whether you use the phone line or access resources online. There are no hidden charges. 

Type 1 diabetes: An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It cannot currently be prevented. 

Type 2 diabetes: A condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Unlike type 1, it is often preventable through lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet, and staying active. 

Gestational diabetes mellitus (sometimes referred to as GDM) is a type of diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.

Yes, for some people, the onset of type 2 diabetes may be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes. Research shows that up to 58% of type 2 diabetes cases may be delayed or prevented with simple lifestyle changes like improving your diet, staying active, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Type 2 diabetes is a serious condition that occurs when the body cannot properly use insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. It has strong links to genetic and family-related risk factors and is also often linked to lifestyle risk factors, such as diet and physical activity. Left unmanaged, it can lead to severe health complications including heart disease, kidney damage, and vision loss. The good news is that type 2 diabetes can often be prevented or delayed with the right support and actions.¹

• Having a family history of type 2 diabetes 
• Being above the healthy weight range 
• Having an inactive lifestyle 
• Increasing age 
• Having an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background 
• Being from a Melanesian, Polynesian, Chinese, Southeast Asian, Middle Eastern or Indian background 
• Having had gestational diabetes 
• Having polycystic ovary syndrome 
• Taking some types of antipsychotic or steroid medicines

The Australian Type 2 Diabetes Risk Calculator is a free tool that helps you understand your risk level for developing type 2 diabetes. By answering a few simple questions about your health and lifestyle, you’ll receive a personalised risk score. The team at 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) can guide you through using this tool. 

Check your risk

The helpline offers: 

• Referrals to local and national diabetes prevention programs and services. 
• Access to evidence-based resources on healthy living. 

Yes, if you’re concerned about a loved one’s risk of type 2 diabetes, you can call the helpline on their behalf or encourage them to get in touch. You can also share resources from the website to help them take preventative steps.

Yes, 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) provides localised advice and connects you with programs and services specific to your state or territory.

Diabetes Australia is the national peak body dedicated to reducing the incidence and impact of diabetes. We want to prevent people from developing type 2 diabetes. 1800PREVENT (type 2 diabetes) is part of our mission to provide evidence-based guidance and practical resources for those at risk of type 2 diabetes. 

These steps may lower or delay your risk of developing type 2 diabetes: 

• Maintain a healthy weight 
• Regular physical activity 
• Make healthy food choices 
• Manage blood pressure 
• Manage cholesterol levels
• Quit smoking.

Regular physical activity helps in several ways: 

• Improves insulin sensitivity: So, your body uses insulin more effectively. 
• Supports weight management: Helping you maintain a healthy weight. 
• Improves overall health: Lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 

The Diabetes Australia website offers: 

• The Type 2 Diabetes Risk Calculator. 
• Healthy eating and exercise tips. 
• Information on risk factors. 
• Details about prevention programs and services available in your area. 

Even if you’re not at immediate risk, it’s always a good idea to learn about type 2 diabetes prevention. This knowledge can help you maintain your health and share valuable insights with family or friends who might be at risk.

It’s easy! 

• Call the helpline: 1800PREVENT (1800 773 8368) 
• Visit the website:  www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/prevention/1800prevent/

Start your prevention journey today – your future health depends on it!