Diabetes Victoria launches new research foundation and innovative research fund

The organisation has also announced a new research fund aimed at raising substantial philanthropic capital for translational diabetes research.

“Australia is home to some of the world’s leading diabetes researchers and clinical trials,” says Glen Noonan, CEO of DIIF.

“But diabetes remains underfunded compared to other chronic conditions. DIIF is here to create change by fuelling translational research that will lead to practical, life-saving healthcare solutions.”

Diabetes is Australia’s fastest growing chronic condition, with an estimated 1.5 million Australians living with diabetes. In Australia, a person is diagnosed with diabetes every 8 minutes.

A further 500,000 Australians are estimated to be living with undiagnosed diabetes.

Despite the scale, funding for diabetes research falls behind other chronic diseases.

As a part of its launch, DIIF has also unveiled its Diabetes Translational Research Fund, a landmark philanthropic initiative designed to raise long-term, flexible capital for diabetes research.

The new Diabetes Translational Research Fund is designed for philanthropists and investors who want to make a real difference to the lives of people impacted by diabetes. It offers flexible giving options, including capital impact loans, a new investment opportunity for Australian Public and Private Ancillary Funds. With evaluations every five years, supporters can see the real-world impact of their contributions.

DIIF will raise funds through a combination of social enterprise ventures, philanthropic giving, and strategic partnerships. One of its first major initiatives includes a partnership with Savers® Australia, a global thrift retailer. Together, they have launched the first Savers® store under this new partnership in Auburn, New South Wales.

“We’re so proud of our 25+ year partnership with Diabetes Victoria, supporting their vital work in diabetes research, management and care.” says Michael Fisher, Managing Director of Savers® Australia.

“We’re excited to continue our relationship through the launch of our partnership with the Diabetes Innovation and Impact Foundation, helping to expand important diabetes research and programs into more communities.”

“At Savers® Auburn, we will accept donations of preloved clothing and household goods on behalf of the Diabetes Innovation and Impact Foundation, and pay them for these donations, helping them fund programs to support Australian’s living with diabetes.”

DIIF aims to connect researchers, healthcare providers, and communities across Australia, ensuring discoveries are rapidly translated into better treatment, prevention, and potential cures for all forms of diabetes.

“Now more than ever, we need to act boldly and fund smartly,” Noonan says. “The scale and urgency of diabetes demands new approaches to how we invest in research. It’s not just about funding more studies, it’s about supporting the right kind of research that leads to practical solutions, faster diagnoses, better treatments, and ultimately, prevention for, and a cure of diabetes.”

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