Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is a complex disorder which has many associated comorbidities besides hyperglycaemia. Micro and macrovascular complications develop as a result of poor risk factor control and contribute to the disability, reduced quality of life and reduced life expectancy associated with the disease. Intensive glucose control and, more importantly, comprehensive care involving treatment of all modifiable cardiovascular risk factors over a sustained period decreases the risk of morbidity and mortality especially in people newly diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. The need to recognise subgroups of people with diabetes with increased risks of complications and the importance of individualised treatment are also discussed. Early intensive treatment and control of risk factors provides the opportunity for greatest accrual of benefit over the longer term.