National Medicines Symposium 2025

The National Medicines Symposium 2025 was held on 22 October and delved into the safe and appropriate use of medicines in people with diabetes.

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Overview

Quality use of medicines in people with diabetes 

Diabetes is one of the most prevalent and fastest growing chronic diseases in Australia. It is a complex disease that can lead to serious health complications, creating challenges for clinicians and individuals in managing the disease.

Safe and appropriate use of medicines in diabetes involves understanding the role of medicines in treating diabetes, while also recognising the importance of nutrition, physical activity and mental health. The most effective diabetes management plans are those that are integrated into an individual’s daily routine and tailored to their cultural beliefs, lifestyle and preferences.

On 22 October 2025, the National Medicines Symposium brought together leading clinicians, policymakers, researchers and individuals with lived experience for a timely discussion on emerging issues and current challenges surrounding medicines safety in people with diabetes. The event highlighted practical considerations and approaches that could be incorporated to improve the safe and appropriate use of medicines in people living with diabetes.

Session recordings

NMS25 Opening address

NMS25 facilitator and opening address
  Speaker Youtube timestamp
Welcome to country Mr Michael West,
Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council		 00:00:00
Introduction with NMS 2025 facilitator Professor Andrew McLachlan AM,
Head of School and Dean, Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney		 00:01:31
Opening remarks The Honourable Mark Butler MP,
Minister for Health and Ageing and Minister for Disability and the National Disability Insurance Scheme		 00:03:23
Welcoming address Conjoint Professor Anne Duggan,
Chief Executive Officer, Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care		 00:07:20

Morning session

Morning session

Diabetes is one of Australia’s most pressing and complex health challenges, impacting millions. 

This session set the scene for safe and appropriate use of medicines in people living with diabetes. It explored the management of diabetes medicines in primary care, including considerations for people with or at risk of complications. It also highlighted the challenges and opportunities in strengthening diabetes care in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It emphasised the importance of an integrated model of care in the management of diabetes.

Diabetes landscape in Australia

Professor Dianna Magliano, Head of Diabetes and Population Health at the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute

With over 20 years of experience in epidemiology focusing on diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, Professor Magliano explored the evolving landscape of diabetes in Australia, highlighting the national trends of incidence, prevalence and cost of diabetes in different population groups. 


Medicines management in type 1 diabetes

Distinguished Professor David Simmons, Professor of Medicine, Western Sydney University and Chief Medical Officer, Diabetes Australia

How has the management of type 1 diabetes been influenced by advances in technology? Distinguished Professor David Simmons shared how improved methods for insulin deliveries can improve quality use of medicines in type 1 diabetes. This session also provided insights into self-management skills and emerging issues in type 1 diabetes.


Medicines management of type 2 diabetes

Professor Jonathan Shaw, Deputy Director of Clinical and Population Health, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute

With the increasing range of diabetes medicines and their expanding use beyond diabetes, Professor Jonathan Shaw presented findings on diabetes medicines that not only lower glucose levels but also reduce the risk of end-organ damage. 


Complications of diabetes

Professor Stephen Twigg, Head of Endocrinology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Kellion Professor of Endocrinology, Stan Clark Chair in Diabetes and Head of Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney

Evidence-based medicines are key in improving outcomes for people with diabetes, with or at risk of complications. In this session, Professor Stephen Twigg explored how appropriate use of medicines in people living with diabetes can improve or prevent diabetes complications. Professor Twigg also highlighted the importance of individualised glycaemic targets and care to optimise diabetes management. 


Diabetes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the role of integrated pharmacists

  • Dr Jason Agostino, General Practitioner, Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service and Senior Medical Advisor, National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation

  • Ms Pippa Travers-Mason, Integrated Clinical Pharmacist, Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service; Clinical Health Services Specialist, Educator and Presenter

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are three times more likely to live with diabetes than non-indigenous Australians. In these communities, diabetes rarely occurs in isolation and the complex need of communities require community-led, multidisciplinary approaches. With over a decade of experience working in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, Dr Jason Agostino and Ms Pippa Travers-Mason shared their experience on how integrated approaches and embedding non-dispensing pharmacists within primary care teams can support culturally safe and high-quality use of medicines.


Diabetes Alliance Program Plus - Transformative integrated diabetes care across regional, rural and remote communities

Professor Shamasunder Acharya, Director of Diabetes and Endocrinology and Program Lead for Diabetes Alliance Plus, Hunter New England Health District

Discover how an integrated, community-focused model of diabetes care has transformed outcomes. In this session, Professor Shamasunder Acharya outlined the journey that led to the establishment of the Diabetes Alliance Program Plus (DAP+) and highlighted initiatives that have proven effective in reducing hospitalisations. 


Panel discussion: Management of diabetes medicines in primary care

  • Ms Renza Scibilia

  • Distinguished Professor David Simmons

  • Dr Gary Deed

  • Ms Kirrily Chambers

  • Associate Professor Margaret McGill AM

This panel discussion explored practical approaches for optimising diabetes medicines that support safe, effective and patient-centred care in the primary care setting. Experts discussed challenges arising from the expanding range of treatment options and evolving medicines availability. Key topics included patient-centred care, partnering with people living with diabetes and their families, and strengthening collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. The panel also reflected on the crucial role of general practitioners as care coordinators and identified opportunities for improvement within primary care.

Afternoon session

Afternoon session

This session featured practical strategies for improving diabetes care during key transition periods and explored considerations for managing diabetes medicines across different populations. It highlighted the voices of people with lived experience and emphasised how non-pharmacological strategies can enhance the quality use of medicines for people living with diabetes. The session also discussed challenges and opportunities in improving diabetes care through the use of continuous glucose monitoring, apps and insulin pumps.

Diabetes management during and after hospital

Associate Professor Spiros Fourlanos, Head of Diabetes and Endocrinology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital

Acute illness and surgery alter physiology, making diabetes less stable. Associate Professor Spiros Fourlanos shared the importance of modifying diabetes medicines before, during and after hospitalisation to optimise glycaemia. This session also covered considerations for different diabetes medicines, including GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, during this important period. 


Diabetes management during pregnancy

Associate Professor Glynis Ross, Visiting Medical Officer in Endocrinology and Lead Endocrinologist of Diabetes in Pregnancy Service, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Associate Professor Glynis Ross discussed how the management of diabetes differs during pregnancy, highlighting the different approaches for women with pre-existing diabetes and those with gestational diabetes. This session outlined key points for consideration when managing diabetes during pregnancy, and the need for long-term follow up – particularly for women with gestational diabetes, to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other related complications in the future.


Management of diabetes during transition of care from paediatrics to adulthood

Professor Alicia Jenkins, Head of Diabetes and Vascular Medicine, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute

Many Australians with diabetes must transition from paediatrics to adult care, a high-risk period for reduced health engagement and worsening metabolic and mental health. Professor Alicia Jenkins shared how failures in the transition from paediatrics to adult diabetes care can be minimised through a planned multidisciplinary approach supported by effective communication and regular follow-up. During this session, Professor Jenkins outlined various models of diabetes transition and highlighted resources that can support people living with diabetes and healthcare teams during this transition period.


Panel discussion: Diabetes management during transitions of care

  • Associate Professor Spiros Fourlanos

  • Associate Professor Glynis Ross

  • Dr Michael Hancock

  • Dr Phoebe Holdenson Kimura

This panel discussion focused on practical strategies for improving diabetes care during various transition periods, including hospital discharge, pregnancy and gestational diabetes, and the shift from paediatric to adult services. Experts discussed the challenges and opportunities for achieving a smoother transition of care by focusing on effective communication, collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, and encouraging people living with diabetes to actively ask questions and engage in their care.

Pharmacological considerations for diabetes medicines in specific patient populations

Professor Jennifer Martin, Physician, Clinical Pharmacologist and President of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians

Diabetes affects individuals of all ages at various stages of life, often alongside other chronic conditions, which can make dosing of diabetes medicines challenging. In this session, Professor Jennifer Martin highlighted the importance of developing tailored diabetes medicines management plans that address different individual patient needs and minimise the risk of complications. Professor Martin also emphasised the value of establishing realistic goals of care in partnership with people living with diabetes. 


Living with diabetes: Empowering self-management

Ms Rachel Hicks, PhD Candidate and Research Assistant, Western Sydney University

With over 30 years of lived experience with type 1 diabetes, Ms Rachel Hicks understands the challenges and complexities of managing her diabetes across different stages of her life. In this session, Ms Hicks shared her invaluable insights on the importance of empowering and supporting people living with diabetes to manage their condition effectively. Drawing on her own experience and learning, Ms Hicks provided practical tools and knowledge for both individuals living with diabetes and healthcare professionals to help foster confidence and engagement in self-management. 


Challenges of diabetes management from a carer’s perspective

Mrs Salā Ronda Thompson, Lead Community Activator and Research Assistant, Western Sydney University

Mrs Salā Ronda Thompson, a passionate Diabetes Advocate of a Pasifika background, shared her personal story of supporting her husband from the perspective of a caregiver. Like many members of the Pasifika community, Mrs Thompson faced challenges in understanding medical terminology and comprehending what diabetes truly means. This session offered deep insights into the lived experience of managing diabetes within the Pasifika community, with discussions on the gap in diabetes knowledge caused by mistranslation, and challenges with balancing cultural commitments with health priorities. Mrs Thompson also highlighted opportunities to improve care by engaging cultural and community leadership to co-design meaningful and culturally safe programs. 


Food is medicine - Medical Nutrition Therapy for diabetes management

Dr Robyn Barnes, Senior Diabetes Dietitian and District Diabetes Coordinator, South Western Sydney Local Health District

Is food medicine for people with diabetes? Dr Robyn Barnes discussed how dietary advice by a dietitian that is tailored, structured and complemented with behavioural support can improve an individual’s HbA1c. Dr Barnes also shared practical advice on how to maintain healthy eating habits while staying on a budget. 


Exercise for the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes

Dr Casey Peiris, Head of Allied Health Research and Director of Academic and Research Collaborative in Health, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and La Trobe University

Dr Casey Peiris outlined how exercise not only lowers blood sugar level but also reduces diabetes complications by improving cardiovascular health. In this session, Dr Peiris discussed various types of exercises, recommended doses and safety considerations when prescribing exercise to people living with diabetes. 


Optimising diabetes care by addressing and supporting psychological health

Ms Sarah Lam, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Bankstown Hospital Diabetes Centre

Mental health screening and treatment are often not prioritised in diabetes care, but people often feel weighed down by living with diabetes which then makes it harder to look after diabetes. In this session, Ms Sarah Lam outlined the different mental health conditions associated with diabetes and demonstrated how concerns related to suboptimal medication-taking can lead to emotional distress. Clinicians are encouraged to screen for and address psychological distress as part of routine diabetes care and shared practical strategies that can be applied in everyday practices. 


Panel discussion: Diabetes technology - continuous glucose monitors (CGM), apps and insulin pumps

  • Ms Rachel Hicks

  • Associate Professor Shane Hamblin

  • Dr Lee Fong

This panel discussion focused on the considerations for the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), apps and insulin pumps, and how they transform diabetes care, improve patient outcomes and shape the future of diabetes management. Experts explored themes such as access, capability and equity to diabetes technologies, as well as safety issues outside working hours and during hospital admissions.

Closing address

Professor Christine Kilpatrick AO, Board Chair, Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

Close with NMS 2025 facilitator

Professor Andrew McLachlan AM, Head of School and Dean, Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney

NMS25 Opening address

NMS25 facilitator and opening address
  Speaker Youtube timestamp
Welcome to country Mr Michael West,
Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council		 00:00:00
Introduction with NMS 2025 facilitator Professor Andrew McLachlan AM,
Head of School and Dean, Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney		 00:01:31
Opening remarks The Honourable Mark Butler MP,
Minister for Health and Ageing and Minister for Disability and the National Disability Insurance Scheme		 00:03:23
Welcoming address Conjoint Professor Anne Duggan,
Chief Executive Officer, Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care		 00:07:20

Morning session

Morning session

Diabetes is one of Australia’s most pressing and complex health challenges, impacting millions. 

This session set the scene for safe and appropriate use of medicines in people living with diabetes. It explored the management of diabetes medicines in primary care, including considerations for people with or at risk of complications. It also highlighted the challenges and opportunities in strengthening diabetes care in the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. It emphasised the importance of an integrated model of care in the management of diabetes.

Diabetes landscape in Australia

Professor Dianna Magliano, Head of Diabetes and Population Health at the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute

With over 20 years of experience in epidemiology focusing on diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity, Professor Magliano explored the evolving landscape of diabetes in Australia, highlighting the national trends of incidence, prevalence and cost of diabetes in different population groups. 


Medicines management in type 1 diabetes

Distinguished Professor David Simmons, Professor of Medicine, Western Sydney University and Chief Medical Officer, Diabetes Australia

How has the management of type 1 diabetes been influenced by advances in technology? Distinguished Professor David Simmons shared how improved methods for insulin deliveries can improve quality use of medicines in type 1 diabetes. This session also provided insights into self-management skills and emerging issues in type 1 diabetes.


Medicines management of type 2 diabetes

Professor Jonathan Shaw, Deputy Director of Clinical and Population Health, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute

With the increasing range of diabetes medicines and their expanding use beyond diabetes, Professor Jonathan Shaw presented findings on diabetes medicines that not only lower glucose levels but also reduce the risk of end-organ damage. 


Complications of diabetes

Professor Stephen Twigg, Head of Endocrinology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Kellion Professor of Endocrinology, Stan Clark Chair in Diabetes and Head of Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney

Evidence-based medicines are key in improving outcomes for people with diabetes, with or at risk of complications. In this session, Professor Stephen Twigg explored how appropriate use of medicines in people living with diabetes can improve or prevent diabetes complications. Professor Twigg also highlighted the importance of individualised glycaemic targets and care to optimise diabetes management. 


Diabetes in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and the role of integrated pharmacists

  • Dr Jason Agostino, General Practitioner, Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service and Senior Medical Advisor, National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation

  • Ms Pippa Travers-Mason, Integrated Clinical Pharmacist, Gurriny Yealamucka Health Service; Clinical Health Services Specialist, Educator and Presenter

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are three times more likely to live with diabetes than non-indigenous Australians. In these communities, diabetes rarely occurs in isolation and the complex need of communities require community-led, multidisciplinary approaches. With over a decade of experience working in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, Dr Jason Agostino and Ms Pippa Travers-Mason shared their experience on how integrated approaches and embedding non-dispensing pharmacists within primary care teams can support culturally safe and high-quality use of medicines.


Diabetes Alliance Program Plus - Transformative integrated diabetes care across regional, rural and remote communities

Professor Shamasunder Acharya, Director of Diabetes and Endocrinology and Program Lead for Diabetes Alliance Plus, Hunter New England Health District

Discover how an integrated, community-focused model of diabetes care has transformed outcomes. In this session, Professor Shamasunder Acharya outlined the journey that led to the establishment of the Diabetes Alliance Program Plus (DAP+) and highlighted initiatives that have proven effective in reducing hospitalisations. 


Panel discussion: Management of diabetes medicines in primary care

  • Ms Renza Scibilia

  • Distinguished Professor David Simmons

  • Dr Gary Deed

  • Ms Kirrily Chambers

  • Associate Professor Margaret McGill AM

This panel discussion explored practical approaches for optimising diabetes medicines that support safe, effective and patient-centred care in the primary care setting. Experts discussed challenges arising from the expanding range of treatment options and evolving medicines availability. Key topics included patient-centred care, partnering with people living with diabetes and their families, and strengthening collaboration within multidisciplinary teams. The panel also reflected on the crucial role of general practitioners as care coordinators and identified opportunities for improvement within primary care.

Afternoon session

Afternoon session

This session featured practical strategies for improving diabetes care during key transition periods and explored considerations for managing diabetes medicines across different populations. It highlighted the voices of people with lived experience and emphasised how non-pharmacological strategies can enhance the quality use of medicines for people living with diabetes. The session also discussed challenges and opportunities in improving diabetes care through the use of continuous glucose monitoring, apps and insulin pumps.

Diabetes management during and after hospital

Associate Professor Spiros Fourlanos, Head of Diabetes and Endocrinology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital

Acute illness and surgery alter physiology, making diabetes less stable. Associate Professor Spiros Fourlanos shared the importance of modifying diabetes medicines before, during and after hospitalisation to optimise glycaemia. This session also covered considerations for different diabetes medicines, including GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, during this important period. 


Diabetes management during pregnancy

Associate Professor Glynis Ross, Visiting Medical Officer in Endocrinology and Lead Endocrinologist of Diabetes in Pregnancy Service, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Associate Professor Glynis Ross discussed how the management of diabetes differs during pregnancy, highlighting the different approaches for women with pre-existing diabetes and those with gestational diabetes. This session outlined key points for consideration when managing diabetes during pregnancy, and the need for long-term follow up – particularly for women with gestational diabetes, to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other related complications in the future.


Management of diabetes during transition of care from paediatrics to adulthood

Professor Alicia Jenkins, Head of Diabetes and Vascular Medicine, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute

Many Australians with diabetes must transition from paediatrics to adult care, a high-risk period for reduced health engagement and worsening metabolic and mental health. Professor Alicia Jenkins shared how failures in the transition from paediatrics to adult diabetes care can be minimised through a planned multidisciplinary approach supported by effective communication and regular follow-up. During this session, Professor Jenkins outlined various models of diabetes transition and highlighted resources that can support people living with diabetes and healthcare teams during this transition period.


Panel discussion: Diabetes management during transitions of care

  • Associate Professor Spiros Fourlanos

  • Associate Professor Glynis Ross

  • Dr Michael Hancock

  • Dr Phoebe Holdenson Kimura

This panel discussion focused on practical strategies for improving diabetes care during various transition periods, including hospital discharge, pregnancy and gestational diabetes, and the shift from paediatric to adult services. Experts discussed the challenges and opportunities for achieving a smoother transition of care by focusing on effective communication, collaboration within multidisciplinary teams, and encouraging people living with diabetes to actively ask questions and engage in their care.

Pharmacological considerations for diabetes medicines in specific patient populations

Professor Jennifer Martin, Physician, Clinical Pharmacologist and President of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians

Diabetes affects individuals of all ages at various stages of life, often alongside other chronic conditions, which can make dosing of diabetes medicines challenging. In this session, Professor Jennifer Martin highlighted the importance of developing tailored diabetes medicines management plans that address different individual patient needs and minimise the risk of complications. Professor Martin also emphasised the value of establishing realistic goals of care in partnership with people living with diabetes. 


Living with diabetes: Empowering self-management

Ms Rachel Hicks, PhD Candidate and Research Assistant, Western Sydney University

With over 30 years of lived experience with type 1 diabetes, Ms Rachel Hicks understands the challenges and complexities of managing her diabetes across different stages of her life. In this session, Ms Hicks shared her invaluable insights on the importance of empowering and supporting people living with diabetes to manage their condition effectively. Drawing on her own experience and learning, Ms Hicks provided practical tools and knowledge for both individuals living with diabetes and healthcare professionals to help foster confidence and engagement in self-management. 


Challenges of diabetes management from a carer’s perspective

Mrs Salā Ronda Thompson, Lead Community Activator and Research Assistant, Western Sydney University

Mrs Salā Ronda Thompson, a passionate Diabetes Advocate of a Pasifika background, shared her personal story of supporting her husband from the perspective of a caregiver. Like many members of the Pasifika community, Mrs Thompson faced challenges in understanding medical terminology and comprehending what diabetes truly means. This session offered deep insights into the lived experience of managing diabetes within the Pasifika community, with discussions on the gap in diabetes knowledge caused by mistranslation, and challenges with balancing cultural commitments with health priorities. Mrs Thompson also highlighted opportunities to improve care by engaging cultural and community leadership to co-design meaningful and culturally safe programs. 


Food is medicine - Medical Nutrition Therapy for diabetes management

Dr Robyn Barnes, Senior Diabetes Dietitian and District Diabetes Coordinator, South Western Sydney Local Health District

Is food medicine for people with diabetes? Dr Robyn Barnes discussed how dietary advice by a dietitian that is tailored, structured and complemented with behavioural support can improve an individual’s HbA1c. Dr Barnes also shared practical advice on how to maintain healthy eating habits while staying on a budget. 


Exercise for the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes

Dr Casey Peiris, Head of Allied Health Research and Director of Academic and Research Collaborative in Health, The Royal Melbourne Hospital and La Trobe University

Dr Casey Peiris outlined how exercise not only lowers blood sugar level but also reduces diabetes complications by improving cardiovascular health. In this session, Dr Peiris discussed various types of exercises, recommended doses and safety considerations when prescribing exercise to people living with diabetes. 


Optimising diabetes care by addressing and supporting psychological health

Ms Sarah Lam, Senior Clinical Psychologist, Bankstown Hospital Diabetes Centre

Mental health screening and treatment are often not prioritised in diabetes care, but people often feel weighed down by living with diabetes which then makes it harder to look after diabetes. In this session, Ms Sarah Lam outlined the different mental health conditions associated with diabetes and demonstrated how concerns related to suboptimal medication-taking can lead to emotional distress. Clinicians are encouraged to screen for and address psychological distress as part of routine diabetes care and shared practical strategies that can be applied in everyday practices. 


Panel discussion: Diabetes technology - continuous glucose monitors (CGM), apps and insulin pumps

  • Ms Rachel Hicks

  • Associate Professor Shane Hamblin

  • Dr Lee Fong

This panel discussion focused on the considerations for the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), apps and insulin pumps, and how they transform diabetes care, improve patient outcomes and shape the future of diabetes management. Experts explored themes such as access, capability and equity to diabetes technologies, as well as safety issues outside working hours and during hospital admissions.

Closing address

Professor Christine Kilpatrick AO, Board Chair, Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

Close with NMS 2025 facilitator

Professor Andrew McLachlan AM, Head of School and Dean, Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney

More information

Contact NMS@safetyandquality.gov.au

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