He said a survey of Victorians would show most didn't realise that a hamburger from popular fast-food chains contained 1000 calories - which was a third to a half of an average adult's recommended daily calorie intake.

"It's about making sure the public, individuals and families have the information they need to make informed decisions [about their diet]."

Mr Brumby said investigating new, simpler labelling - similar to that successfully trialled in New York - may also lead to fast-food outlets competing to provide the healthiest options.

Both the state and federal governments reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the diabetes epidemic in the west, but fell short of committing to additional funding.

Health Minister Nicola Roxon, whose federal seat of Gellibrand covers the inner-west, said she had launched a range of healthy living programs to encourage people to eat better and get active. These include the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program, Measure Up campaign, and a Medicare item that pays GPs to do diabetes risk evaluations on high-risk patients.

"The Rudd Government is acutely aware that diabetes is a health issue right across Australia and particularly locally in the west.

"In response to this situation, the Rudd Government has invested a record $872million into preventive health - the largest single commitment in preventive health by an Australian government. This includes the establishment of Australia's first-ever Preventive Health Agency, which will tackle lifestyle risk factors causing preventable chronic conditions such as obesity, tobacco and the excessive consumption of alcohol.

"Unfortunately, the establishment of this important agency is currently being delayed by the Liberal Party in the Senate."

A State Government spokesman said various preventive health programs were turning the tide of chronic diseases like diabetes.

"The Government's fight against chronic disease is producing positive results. Evaluations of the Hospital Admission Risk Program show these patients experience 35 per cent fewer emergency department attendance, 52 per cent fewer ED admissions, and 41 per cent fewer days in hospital. The Department of Health continues to work with local stakeholders on developing initiatives to further address this challenge."