Diabetes Australia has launched a collaborative approach to research funding that increases the direct involvement, and prioritisation of funding allocations based on feedback and co-design, of people living with diabetes.

By funding research underpinned by scientific excellence, and co-designed by people living with diabetes, researchers and industry partners, the five-year strategy aims to deliver impactful research that directly benefits the diabetes community.

A central component of the strategy is funding for PhD scholarships and fellowships to support early to mid-career researchers, nurturing the next generation of diabetes researchers, and ensuring Australia builds a strong pipeline of research talent.

This substantial investment was made possible by the generosity of Sheila Woodcock who bequeathed AU$1.4 million to Diabetes Australia in NSW in 2020.

The first of the PhD scholarships is being co-funded with Western Sydney University.

A Diabetes Australia Research Impact Hub has also been established, which will become the centre point for Australia’s diabetes research community. The online platform will drive innovation and create impact by making it easier to find funding, training, and engagement tools.

It will also support collaboration and networking, both locally and internationally, to boost diabetes research initiatives.

Importantly, the Hub will include an expanding ‘Lived Experience Research Portal’ to empower people living with diabetes to actively participate and shape research that affects their lives.

Diabetes Australia has committed $40 million over the next decade to sustain Australia’s world-class research sector.