With Brimbank having the highest number of people with diabetes in the state, VCOSS says more has to be done to improve the health system.

Chief executive Cath Smith said increased investment in preventive health and early intervention strategies was needed.

More than 10,000 people in Brimbank have diabetes and a further 758 cases are being diagnosed each year, according to Diabetes Australia (Victoria).

Ms Smith said chronic disease caused 80 per cent of the total burden of disease in the state and accounted for nearly 70 per cent of health expenditure, placing pressure on both hospitals and the primary health system.

"The rate of those suffering from diabetes in Victoria has doubled in the past seven years with the number of people living with the disease increasing from 96,000 in 2001 to 200,500 in 2008," Ms Smith said.

"Similarly, areas with the highest prevalence of diabetes are among our most disadvantaged communities."

She said the greatest burden of chronic disease was related to illnesses that could be reduced or even prevented through lifestyle changes and improved living conditions.

State government spokesman Chris Owner said in a statement that the government acknowledged the burden of diabetes in Brimbank. He said it was already making an investment in prevention and early intervention initiatives. He pointed to the 'Life! Taking Action on Diabetes' program, which targets those identified as being at-risk , including indigenous and over-50 residents.

The program has six facilitators in Brimbank. More than 50 people have completed or are doing the diabetes prevention course.