NDSS continuous glucose monitoring — eligibility, devices, copayments, GP role
Children and young people under 21 with Type 1 diabetes are eligible for fully subsidised CGM through the NDSS — no copayment required. Source: NDSS.com.au
Adults with Type 1 diabetes who hold a Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or Commonwealth Seniors Health Card are eligible for fully subsidised CGM — no copayment.
Women with Type 1 diabetes who are actively planning pregnancy, pregnant, or immediately post-partum are eligible for fully subsidised CGM for up to 12 months (initial 6 months + 6-month extension on confirmation of ongoing pre-pregnancy care).
Adults with Type 1 diabetes aged 21 and over without a concession card are eligible for subsidised CGM through the NDSS, but a copayment per sensor applies.
Some people under 21 with rare conditions that are very similar to Type 1 diabetes and require insulin may be eligible (e.g. neonatal-onset diabetes, post-pancreatectomy diabetes).
This requires assessment and certification by a specialist. Access is not automatic — eligibility must be confirmed by an endocrinologist or paediatrician with expertise in the specific condition.
People with Type 2 diabetes are not currently eligible for subsidised CGM through the NDSS — regardless of whether they are on insulin, GLP-1 agonists, or other treatments.
People with Type 2 diabetes on oral agents are not eligible for subsidised CGM through the NDSS. CGM devices can be purchased out of pocket — prices have fallen significantly since 2022.
Gestational diabetes is not eligible for the NDSS CGM subsidy program. The program is specifically for Type 1 diabetes (and rare similar conditions in under-21s).
CGM may be recommended clinically in GDM but is out of pocket. Some maternity hospitals have CGM available for inpatient use. Discuss options with the patient's obstetric team.
Copayment amounts are indexed. Verify current figures at ndss.com.au/products/cgm-devices before counselling patients.
Dexcom ONE+ is TGA-approved for type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes, but is not on the NDSS CGM subsidy for any patient group. Available at retail via the Dexcom Australia online shop only. Positioned as an entry-level Dexcom for T2D patients wanting continuous data without pump-linked features. Verify current retail pricing at dexcom.com/en-au.
CareSens Air (Pharmaco Diabetes Australia, launched February 2026) is indicated for type 1 or type 2 diabetes in adults 18 years and over. Not on the NDSS. 15-day sensor wear, 5-minute readings via compatible smartphone app, IP48 water resistant, all-in-one applicator. Lower entry price than Dexcom ONE+ (from $45/sensor at 6-pack; $55/sensor for single). Retail via pharmacodiabetes.com.au and selected pharmacies. Sources: Pharmaco product page (updated 2 June 2026); Diabetes Victoria.
CGM is not subsidised for T2DM but out-of-pocket costs have fallen significantly since 2022. Approximate retail pricing as of 2026:
| CareSens Air (Pharmaco) | Retail via pharmacodiabetes.com.au or pharmacies — from $45/sensor at 6-pack, $55/sensor single (15 days per sensor, adults 18+) |
| Dexcom ONE+ | Retail via dexcom.com/en-au shop only — entry-level Dexcom, not NDSS-listed even for T1D |
| FreeStyle Libre 2 | ~$50–$60/sensor retail · 2 sensors/month = ~$100–$120/month |
| Dexcom G7 | Varies — check current retail pricing at pharmacy |
| Reader (FreeStyle) | One-off ~$70–$80 (or use compatible smartphone) |
Prices are approximate and change. Dexcom and Abbott both have active campaigns to expand NDSS subsidy to T2DM — policy may change.
| Action | GP can do? |
|---|---|
| Identify eligible T1D patient not yet on CGM | ✓ Yes |
| Discuss CGM options and NDSS program with patient | ✓ Yes |
| Confirm NDSS registration (free — ndss.com.au) | ✓ Yes |
| Refer patient to CDE or endocrinologist for CGM initiation | ✓ Yes |
| Interpret CGM data at reviews and adjust management | ✓ Yes |
| Certify NDSS CGM access form | ✗ No |
| Initiate CGM access without specialist/CDE involvement (T1D) | ✗ No |
| Prescribe subsidised CGM for T2DM patients | ✗ No (not currently eligible) |
Patient must be registered with NDSS before ordering any subsidised products. Registration is free and immediate — ndss.com.au or phone 1800 637 700. Confirm Type 1 diabetes diagnosis is clearly documented.
A credentialled diabetes educator (CDE) is usually the fastest pathway. CDEs can assess, educate, complete the CGM access form, and submit it in one appointment. Endocrinologist referral is appropriate for complex patients.
The NDSS CGM access form can be submitted online via the NDSS Health Professional Portal — access is usually confirmed within minutes when correctly completed. Paper forms are also available.
Usually the local pharmacy (NDSS access point). Maximum 3 months' supply per transaction. Annual product limits apply. Patient pays copayment at time of order (if applicable).
Most PMS platforms can display CGM reports. Time-in-range (TIR), hypoglycaemia patterns, and average glucose inform management decisions. Adjust insulin doses, review hypo management, update GPCCMP as needed.