Type 2 diabetes Vietnamese pilot Peer Support Group

For many people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds, this can be more challenging due to barriers such as language, stigma, and limited access to health information that is easy to understand and culturally relevant. 

Brimbank is home to one of Victoria’s largest Vietnamese-speaking communities, with almost one in five residents speaking Vietnamese at home.

It is also one of the areas most affected by type 2 diabetes, with nearly 16,500 residents living with the condition (NDSS, 2023). 

Responding to community need

To respond to this need, Diabetes Victoria partnered with Brimbank Council in March 2025, launched a Type 2 diabetes Vietnamese pilot peer support group designed by and for the community. 

The group met every two months and provided a safe, welcoming space where people could learn about diabetes, share experiences, and support each other in their own language. Sessions were led by bicultural workers and trusted community members, with guest speakers such as dietitians, pharmacists, and diabetes educators. Word-of-mouth and grassroots promotion have helped reach people who might not otherwise connect with diabetes services, and participation has grown with each session. 

Feedback has been very positive 

Approximately 80% of participants reported feeling more confident about managing their diabetes and better informed about their health from March to July. Just as importantly, they valued meeting others who understand their experiences with one participant saying: 

 “Meeting my (many) peers/friends, is very good!” (Translated). 

Building on this success and feedback from participants: 

“I’m very thankful for this Peer Support Group/ initiative. I hope to continue getting the support” (Translated).  

With the continued support from our community, Diabetes Victoria is exploring ways to continue the program, with the aim of improving health knowledge, reducing barriers to accessing health services, and empowering more Vietnamese-speaking residents in Brimbank to live well with type 2 diabetes. 

If you would like to know more about our Peer Support Network, please visit the peer support page or email our team.