Diabetes Community Day
A dedicated day for the diabetes community, as part of the IDF-WPR Congress 2026
Tuesday 18 August 2026
Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC)
Free event - registration required
Overview
The Diabetes Community Day, hosted by Diabetes Australia, is a dedicated part of the IDF Western Pacific Region Congress 2026 – designed specifically for people living with diabetes, their families and supporters.
Taking place on the opening day of the Congress, this free event brings together education, lived experience, advocacy and innovation in an accessible, welcoming environment.
Whether you’re looking to learn more about managing diabetes, connect with others, or explore the latest tools and support available, the Diabetes Community Day offers a unique opportunity to engage with the Congress in a way that is relevant, practical and meaningful.
What to expect
The Diabetes Community Day combines a curated content program with an interactive Community Exhibition to create a full day of learning, connection, and discovery.
Content Program
The day will feature a series of sessions designed to inform, empower and connect, including:
- National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) Education Session– practical education sessions to support living well with diabetes
- Conversations focused on advocacy, stigma and lived experience
- A “Taste of the Congress” session offering insights from the main Congress program
- The Diabetes Australia Grand Innovation Challenge Final, showcasing new ideas and innovations in diabetes care
Sessions are designed to be accessible and flexible - you can attend the sessions that matter most to you.
Indicative Program
Please note this is subject to change
| Session | Time (approx.) |
| NDSS Education Session | 9:30am – 11:00am |
| Stigma & Advocacy in Focus | 11:30am – 12:30pm |
| Taste of the Congress | 1:15pm – 2:15pm |
| Diabetes Australia Grand Innovation Challenge Final Showcase | 3:00pm – 5:00pm |
| Congress Opening Ceremony | 5:30pm - 7:00pm |
Diabetes Australia Grand Innovation Challenge Final Showcase
The Diabetes Australia Grand Innovation Challenge (the Challenge), proudly supported by the Charles Campbell Coghlan OAM Estate, is a national initiative designed to accelerate the development and adoption of breakthrough innovations that address the most pressing needs in diabetes prevention, management, and care.
As a feature event of the Congress, and with FREE ENTRY, the Final Showcase Pitching Event will be held as part of the Diabetes Community Day program.
Come watch Australia’s top innovators pitch their breakthrough technology solutions to improve the lives of people living with and at risk. Up to $500,000 in targeted funding and national recognition is available to fast-track these big ideas into the hands of people who need it most.
Community Exhibition
Alongside the program, a dedicated exhibition space will feature
- Trusted diabetes organisations, services, and programs
- Opportunities to explore tools, technologies and support resources
- Interactive displays and experiences
- Opportunities to connect directly with people working across the diabetes community
Special Experiences
Planned highlights across the day will include:
- Ambassador meet and greet opportunities
- Interactive activities and community engagement experiences
- Opportunities to connect with others living with or impacted by diabetes
Further program details and announcements will be shared in the lead-up to the event.
Who should attend
The Diabetes Community Day is open to:
- People living with diabetes
- Family members, carers, and supporters
- Community members with an interest in diabetes
- Researchers, health professionals and those working in diabetes care, and industry representatives
Part of a global Congress
The Diabetes Community Day forms part of the IDF Western Pacific Region Congress 2026, one of the most significant diabetes meetings in the region, bringing together clinicians, researchers, educators, advocates, and policymakers from across Australia and internationally.
This dedicated Community Day ensures that people living with diabetes are at the centre of the Congress, with an opportunity to engage directly with the ideas, conversations and innovations shaping the future of diabetes.
Register your place
The Diabetes Community Day is free to attend, however registration is required.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday 18 August 2026
Time: 9:00am - 5:30pm (Followed by the Congress Opening Ceremony, 5:30pm - 7:00pm)
Location: Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre (MCEC), South Wharf
Venue information: For details on how to get to and access the venue, please click here.
More information
Additional details, including the full program, speakers, and exhibitors will be announced soon.
FAQs
Do I need to register to attend?
Yes, registration is required to attend the Diabetes Community Day. Registering in advance helps us plan the day and ensure you have a smooth experience on arrival.
Is the event free?
Yes, the Diabetes Community Day is a free event.
Who can attend?
The event is open to everyone, including people living with diabetes, carers, families, health professionals and anyone interested in learning more about diabetes. The event is also open to delegates attending the broader Congress and pre-Congress workshops being held on the same day.
Can I bring someone?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring a guest. Each attendee will need to register individually.
Can I attend all sessions?
You’re welcome to attend as many sessions as you like. Please select the sessions you’re interested in when you register.
Do I have to be an NDSS registrant to attend the NDSS session?
No, you do not need to be registered with the NDSS to attend this session – all attendees are welcome.
Do I need a Letter of Invitation to attend the Diabetes Community Day?
Letters of Invitation will not be issued for attendance at the Diabetes Community Day. As this is a free, community-focused event rather than a formal conference registration, attendees are responsible for making their own arrangements regarding travel and visa requirements (if applicable).
What happens after I register?
Once you register, you’ll receive a confirmation email with event details and what to expect on the day. Closer to the event, we’ll share any additional updates to help you plan your visit.
Can I bring my own food/drink?
Food and drinks can be purhased from a range of onsite options at the venue. The Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre has restrictions on bringing external food and beverages into the venue. However, individual circumstances may vary, particularly for medical or dietary needs.
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
If you have any questions about the Diabetes Community Day, please contact adc@theconferencecompany.com. We’re happy to help and will respond as soon as possible.