Stronger Together: Local Leaders Unite for a Healthier Western Sydney
July 30, 2026
This week, more than 85 leaders from health services, community organisations, councils and local groups came together at Workers Blacktown for the Western Sydney Diabetes Leaders Alliance.
Everyone came with the same goal – helping people across Western Sydney live healthier lives and reducing the impact of type 2 diabetes.
Working together with our communities
Western Sydney is home to many different cultures, languages and communities. Every community has its own strengths, knowledge and experiences.
The best health programs are built with communities, not just for communities.
The day was about listening, learning and sharing ideas so we can create healthier futures together.
L-R: Rachel Barker (WestWest); Deanne Minniecon (Diabetes Australia); Dr Shivani Moodley (Healthy Living Toongabbie); Dr Rona Francisco (Filipino Australian Diabetes Support Network).
Local organisations making a difference
Across Western Sydney, many organisations are already helping people stay healthy in ways that reflect their culture, community and everyday lives.
Some of the great work shared on the day included:
- Diabetes Australia – Supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people through culturally safe diabetes care and leadership.
- Filipino Australian Diabetes Support Network – Helping Filipino communities learn about diabetes and connect with others.
- Chinese Community – Making it easier for Chinese communities to access diabetes support that reflects their language and culture.
- Healthy Living Toongabbie – Bringing local people together to make healthy living easier, with a focus on South Asian communities.
- Cumberland Healthcare Neighbourhood – Working with local communities to improve health and wellbeing.
- Auburn Diabetes Initiative – Creating local opportunities to help prevent and manage diabetes.
L-R: Consumer representative; Melissa Monteiro (Community Migrant Resource Centre); Aruni Ratnayake (Western Sydney Diabetes); Ernest Kulauzović & Benjamin Dunley (Belgravia Leisure); Scarlett Huang (WSLHD); Dr Rona Francisco (Filipino Australian Diabetes Support Network); Rachel Barker (WestWest); Deanne Minniecon (Diabetes Australia); Dr Shivani Moodley (Healthy Living Toongabbie); Professor Glen Maberly & Sarah Driscoll (Western Sydney Diabetes).
If one of these communities is part of your life, or you’d like to learn more, take a look at the programs available. You may find a local activity, support group or service that’s right for you or someone you know.
Why working together matters
Good health is about more than food and exercise. It’s also about having support, feeling connected, and being able to access services that understand your culture, language and community.
When organisations work together, it’s easier for people to find the support they need. Together, we can remove barriers and help more people live healthier lives.
What this means for you
The 2kg Challenge is one part of this growing network across Western Sydney. Whether it’s your GP, your local council, a community organisation or the 2kg Challenge, there are people ready to support you on your health journey.
If you’re ready to make a healthy change, explore the free 2kg Challenge resources or sign up to our free 8-week program for extra support.
Join the movement
Are you part of a community organisation or local service in Western Sydney? We’re always looking to grow this network and work together to improve health across our communities.
To learn more about the Western Sydney Diabetes Leaders Alliance, get in touch and email info@2kgchallenge.com.