Monitor your glucose levels with ease using the FreeStyle Libre Plus Sensor. This 15-day Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) system is now available in Australia, offering real-time readings every minute directly to your smartphone.

Starting April 1, 2025, eligible Australians can access it through the NDSS for just $17.35, a significant drop from the regular price of $102.00.

Key features:

• 15-day wear: Longest-lasting CGM sensor in Australia.
• Real-time monitoring: Updates every minute via Bluetooth.
• App Integration: Use FreeStyle LibreLink and LibreLinkUp for tracking and sharing data.
• Health benefits: Helps track glucose patterns related to diabetes, PCOS, and menopause.
• Easy access: Subsidised pricing for eligible users through NDSS.

Quick overview:

Whether you're tracking diabetes, PCOS, or menopause-related glucose patterns, this sensor supports better awareness of your glucose trends to guide lifestyle decisions. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in.

How the sensor works

The sensor uses a tiny filament under the skin to track glucose and sends updates to your phone every minute.

Sensor technology basics

The FreeStyle Libre Plus sensor features a flexible filament that's less than 0.4 mm thick, inserted about 5 mm below the skin's surface. This small device continuously measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid every minute.

Applied to the back of the upper arm, it connects via Bluetooth within a 20-foot range, giving you instant access to glucose data - no finger pricks required. These essential features form the foundation of the sensor's functionality.

Main functions

This sensor is designed to monitor glucose levels within a range of 40–400 mg/dL. It offers continuous tracking 24/7 and can be worn for up to 15 days while maintaining consistent accuracy.

App connections

Beyond its tracking capabilities, the sensor integrates with companion apps, making it easier to manage and share your glucose data. The FreeStyle LibreLink app provides real-time readings and tracks historical trends.

Through the LibreLinkUp app, you can share your glucose information with up to 20 family members, caregivers, or healthcare providers, enabling remote monitoring and support. Additionally, glucose data syncs automatically to LibreView, a secure cloud platform that healthcare professionals can access.

To link with your healthcare provider, simply enter their LibreView Practice ID in the FreeStyle LibreLink app.

For the best experience, use the latest version of the FreeStyle LibreLink app (version 2.12.0 as of May 2025). A stable internet connection or mobile data is necessary for syncing with LibreView and sharing data through LibreLinkUp.

Curious how the FreeStyle Libre 2 compares with Vively’s CGM program? Here’s a full breakdown to help you decide what’s right for your needs.

Managing metabolic health

The sensor provides continuous, real-time glucose monitoring to help users make informed decisions about medication, diet, and physical activity. Here’s how it benefits diabetes care, PCOS management, and blood sugar regulation during menopause.

Diabetes care

With continuous tracking, users can view alerts when glucose levels move outside their personalised range. Some users have observed improved glucose patterns, as seen in early observational feedback, making it easier to understand how meals and exercise affect their body.

PCOS management

For individuals with PCOS, the sensor can help track glucose responses that may relate to insulin sensitivity. By tracking glucose responses to different foods and activities, users can better manage their symptoms. Research highlights the impact of this approach:

These personalised insights can help support awareness of glucose fluctuations during menopause.

Blood sugar during menopause

Menopause introduces unique challenges for blood sugar regulation due to hormonal shifts. The sensor helps users monitor glucose patterns linked to changes in sleep, stress, exercise, and diet.

Getting the sensor in Australia

Here’s how you can access the sensor in Australia through the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS), purchase options, and professional medical support.

Coverage and requirements

The NDSS offers subsidised access to the FreeStyle Libre Plus Sensor for those who meet specific eligibility criteria. Here’s a quick breakdown:

To qualify, you’ll need an assessment from an authorised healthcare professional and must submit the required documentation online. Once your eligibility is confirmed, you can move forward with purchasing the sensor.

Where to buy

Once approved, sensors can be purchased at NDSS Access Points, usually community pharmacies, starting April 1, 2025. Key details include:

• Order limit: Up to 6 sensors per order (a 3-month supply)
• NDSS product code: 995
• Subscription savings: Save up to 20% on purchases through the FreeStyle Libre subscription program.

This process ensures you have consistent access to the sensors you need.

Medical support

To get started, work with an authorised diabetes professional to complete your Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) access form. They’ll assess your monitoring needs and handle the necessary documentation.

The FreeStyle LibreLink app also plays a vital role by allowing secure data sharing with your healthcare team. This enables:

• Monitoring of glucose trends remotely
• Adjustments to treatment plans based on real-time data
• Tailored recommendations for better management.

For additional help, the Diabetes Victoria Clinic offers guidance from diabetes educators.

With the right medical advice and tools, integrating the sensor into your overall health tracking routine can support ongoing awareness.

Using your sensor effectively

Learn how to apply, read, and maintain your sensor to get the most out of your glucose tracking.

Correct application

To get the most accurate readings, place the sensor on the back of your upper arm, away from injection sites. Here's how to apply it properly:

• Choose the right location: Pick a spot on the back of your upper arm that's at least an inch away from insulin injection sites and free of moles, scars, or tattoos.
• Prepare the application site: If needed, shave the area, wash it thoroughly with soap and water, and then clean it with an alcohol swab. Let the area dry completely before proceeding.
• Apply the sensor: Place the sensor applicator on a flat, hard surface. Press firmly until the applicator locks into place. Once applied, remember that the sensor needs a one-hour warm-up period before it starts providing glucose readings.

After applying the sensor, make it a habit to regularly check your data to inform your health decisions.

Reading your data

Understanding your glucose readings can support informed lifestyle choices. Here's a quick guide to key metrics and what they mean:

For effective monitoring:

• Look at trends over a 14-day period instead of focusing on single readings.
• Consider how meals, physical activity, and stress levels might influence your glucose patterns.

Interpreting this data can help guide your health-related choices in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Data security

While tracking your glucose trends, it's important to protect your personal information. Abbott ensures secure data transfers between the sensor and the reader, and the app provides a safe way to view your readings.

To enhance security:

• Keep your FreeStyle LibreLink app updated to version 2.12.0 or newer.
• Review the privacy notice within the app to stay informed about how your data is handled.

Conclusion

The Freestyle Libre Plus Sensor is set to bring a new level of convenience and functionality to metabolic monitoring in Australia when it launches in early 2025. With a longer wear time and user-friendly design, it’s poised to make managing metabolic conditions easier than ever.

The device’s benefits are already clear. In beta testing, 82% of participants reported a noticeable reduction in symptom severity while managing PCOS through continuous glucose monitoring. On top of that, its design aims to support consistent glucose monitoring.

Another important milestone is its approval for use in children as young as two years old. Paired with full compatibility with the FreeStyle LibreLink app and the Libre 2 reader, this makes it a practical choice for families across Australia.

Continuous glucose monitoring isn’t just about tracking numbers – it’s about gaining a better understanding of your glucose trends.

The Freestyle Libre Plus Sensor is shaping up to be a game-changer in how Australians approach metabolic health.

FAQs

How is the FreeStyle Libre Plus Sensor different from traditional glucose monitoring methods?

The FreeStyle Libre Plus Sensor offers a modern approach to glucose monitoring, replacing the need for constant finger pricks with continuous tracking. While fingerstick tests only give you a momentary glimpse of your blood sugar, this sensor updates your glucose levels every minute. This feature allows you to spot trends and make better-informed health decisions.

When it comes to accuracy, the FreeStyle Libre Plus Sensor performs on par with traditional methods in most scenarios, boasting a Mean Absolute Relative Difference (MARD) of about 8.2%. Its blend of precision, simplicity, and real-time updates makes it an effective and user-friendly tool for managing blood sugar levels.

Who is eligible for the subsidised FreeStyle Libre Plus Sensor through the NDSS in Australia?

To access the subsidised FreeStyle Libre Plus Sensor through the NDSS in Australia, you need to meet certain eligibility requirements. Adults aged 21 or older with type 1 diabetes can apply. Additionally, some individuals under 21 with rare conditions resembling type 1 diabetes may also be eligible.

Eligibility is assessed according to NDSS guidelines. To confirm if you qualify, you'll need to consult an authorised diabetes healthcare professional. Make sure to review all the criteria and discuss your options with your healthcare provider for more details.

How can I keep my glucose data secure when using the FreeStyle LibreLink app?

To keep your glucose data safe while using the FreeStyle LibreLink app, here are some key steps to follow:

• Turn on two-factor authentication for your LibreView account. This adds an extra layer of security to protect your information.
• Regularly update the app to access the latest security improvements and bug fixes.
• Use strong, unique passwords for your accounts, and make it a habit to change them periodically.
• Share your data only with trusted healthcare professionals, and take a moment to review your privacy settings in the app to control how your data is shared.

Taking these precautions can help you safeguard your personal information while enjoying the app's useful features.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider regarding your individual health needs.

This device is a continuous glucose monitoring tool and does not replace medical treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalised advice.