Health leaders set to spotlight diabetes care across the lifespan at Canberra conference
- education8981
- May 9
- 2 min read
Updated: May 23
9 May 2025—With the theme , this month's Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA) NSW/ACT Conference in Canberra will spotlight the diversity and complexity of modern diabetes care.
The event on 29–30 May will bring together experienced professionals from pharmacy, nursing, podiatry, dietetics, and endocrinology to share insights and practical strategies to support people living with diabetes at every stage of life.
Day one of the conference will feature a practical skills workshop about diabetes foot screening, led by registered podiatrist Quincy Tse.
It will be followed by a full-day program of expert-led presentations covering paediatrics, pregnancy, aged care, primary care, First Nations health, and more.
One of the highlights will be a presentation by Simone Collins, a diabetes social worker from Canberra Health Services, who will explore how to support children and families navigating a diabetes diagnosis in the context of neurodiversity.
“I want this presentation to be an opportunity for clinicians to really think about the challenges and social and emotional impacts of living in a neurotypical world when you are neurodiverse and trying to manage a chronic condition like diabetes,” Ms Collins said.
“We all have something to learn and something to offer; therefore, opportunities like this [conference] should be taken advantage of.”
Ms Collins said her profession brings a unique perspective to the conference and described it as “a great opportunity to be a resource to others and share my passion for social work”.
Kirstin Turner and Bente Hart will co-present a session about diabetes in older adults, highlighting the need for collaborative, tailored care in aged care and community settings.
“Diabetes in older adults presents unique challenges and considerations beyond those seen in younger individuals,” Ms Turner, a consultant clinical pharmacist and credentialled diabetes educator (CDE), said.
“Our presentation will highlight how diabetes management in older adults requires a holistic, individualised approach that considers their unique needs and challenges.”
Ms Turner said that by addressing functional decline, cognitive impairment, polypharmacy, and other geriatric syndromes, healthcare professionals can improve the quality of life and outcomes for this vulnerable population.
Ms Hart, a consultant clinical pharmacist and diabetes educator, emphasised the broader value of attending conferences like this.
“It offers health professionals a multitude of benefits, including updated knowledge, enhanced clinical skills, professional networking, and opportunities for professional development,” she said.
“These benefits can lead to improved patient outcomes and a more fulfilling career.”
Other sessions include Gregory Fulcher, clinical professor of medicine at the University of Sydney, who will explore diabetes management in primary care, highlighting the critical role of CDEs.
With catered networking breaks, a trade exhibition, and a packed program of clinical insights, this conference is a valuable opportunity for all health professionals working in diabetes education and care.
Register now
For media enquiries, contact:
Communications Team
Australian Diabetes Educators Association
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