Plain English guide — what type 2 diabetes is, how it's managed, and what to expect.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition where the body doesn't use insulin effectively, causing blood glucose (sugar) levels to rise above the healthy range. It develops gradually, usually over many years, often with no symptoms at first.
Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas. Its job is to move glucose from your bloodstream into your cells, where it's used for energy. In type 2 diabetes, the cells become less responsive to insulin — this is called insulin resistance. The pancreas tries to compensate by making more insulin, but over time it can't keep up, and blood glucose rises.
Type 2 diabetes is different from type 1 diabetes, which is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Type 2 is far more common and is strongly linked to lifestyle factors, though genetics also play a significant role.
Type 2 diabetes is diagnosed with blood tests. Your GP may use one or more of:
Pre-diabetes (impaired glucose regulation) is diagnosed when results are elevated but below the diabetes threshold — HbA1c 41–47 mmol/mol or fasting glucose 6.1–6.9 mmol/L. Source: Australian Diabetes Society, 2023 Not everyone with pre-diabetes develops type 2 diabetes.
A type 2 diabetes diagnosis usually prompts a series of initial assessments by your GP:
Management typically includes lifestyle changes (diet and physical activity), blood glucose monitoring, and often medication. Many people with type 2 diabetes are eligible for a GP Chronic Condition Management Plan (GPCCMP) under Medicare (item 965), which provides access to subsidised allied health services including a dietitian, diabetes educator, and podiatrist.
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in Australia — affecting approximately 1.3 million Australians. It is managed primarily through general practice, with specialist referral for complex cases.
Many PBS medications are available for type 2 diabetes, including metformin, SGLT2 inhibitors (such as empagliflozin), GLP-1 receptor agonists, and others. The National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) provides subsidised access to blood glucose monitoring products.
Diabetes Australia provides peer support, education programs, and a free diabetes care plan service. Ask your GP about local services and the NDSS.
Information only — your GP confirms what applies to you.
Find condition-specific support organisations, helplines, and community services on helplines.com.au — Australia's directory of health and support services.
Find type 2 diabetes support → helplines.com.au