Breaking News: Wegovy Set to Become More Affordable for Australians at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
In a move that could significantly impact the lives of millions, the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) has recommended that Wegovy (semaglutide) be subsidized through Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). But here's where it gets controversial: this recommendation is specifically for adults with established cardiovascular disease and obesity, leaving some to wonder if it’s enough to address the broader diabetes crisis. Could this be a missed opportunity to help more Australians at risk?
Diabetes Australia’s Group CEO, Justine Cain, has warmly welcomed the news, along with comments from Federal Health Minister Mark Butler, indicating the government’s commitment to work with manufacturer Novo Nordisk. This collaboration aims to make Wegovy more accessible and affordable for Australians, a critical step in the fight against type 2 diabetes. And this is the part most people miss: while genetics and family history play a role, a staggering 58% of type 2 diabetes cases can be prevented or delayed through lifestyle changes and interventions like weight loss medications.
“Supporting individuals who want to lose weight is a cornerstone of type 2 diabetes prevention,” Ms. Cain explained. “Ensuring these medicines are affordable is not just a health issue—it’s a societal one. With over 1.3 million Australians living with type 2 diabetes and another 2 million at risk, every tool counts.”
The PBAC’s published recommendation specifies that the subsidy should be provided for adults with established cardiovascular disease (eCVD) and obesity, who have already experienced a cardiovascular event such as a heart attack, stroke, or symptomatic peripheral arterial disease. This targeted approach raises questions: Are we doing enough to prevent these conditions before they escalate? Should access to such medications be expanded further?
The Diabetes Alliance, led by Diabetes Australia, played a pivotal role in advocating for this outcome. Their joint submission to PBAC’s November 2025 meeting emphasized the importance of access to GLP-1 RA medicines like semaglutide for obesity treatment, given the heightened risk of chronic conditions including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. “It’s encouraging to see the sector’s advice being taken seriously,” Ms. Cain noted. “This recommendation is a step in the right direction, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle.”
With obesity and diabetes rates continuing to rise, the listing of Wegovy on the PBS is a welcome development. However, it also sparks debate: Is this enough to tackle the root causes of these conditions? What more can—or should—be done? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Could this be the beginning of a broader shift in how we approach chronic disease prevention in Australia, or is it just a bandaid on a much larger issue?
