"The Aussie climate definitely drives a more active lifestyle simply because we tend to spend more time outdoors. We also have access to beautiful fresh produce all year round, which means it's easier to make better food choices and nourish our bodies in the right way."
Australian health compared internationally
Australia performs above average or better than many countries – we have a more desirable rank in terms of life expectancy at birth, cardiovascular disease deaths, infant mortality, perceived health status, and tobacco smoking in the OECD.
Australians have access to high-quality, timely and affordable healthcare at every stage of life. Medicare is Australia's universal health care system, providing free public hospital care and patient subsidies for medical services, while the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme keeps medicines affordable.
Self-assessed health status
56% of Australians aged 15 years and over considered themselves to be in excellent or very good health. This has remained constant over the last 10 years.
According to a study published in medical journal The Lancet, obesity rates in Australia are rising faster than anywhere else in the world. Almost two in three adults are now overweight and, alarmingly, by 2020 one-third of Australians over 15 are predicted to be obese.
Australia has strict biosecurity controls to help minimise the risk of pests and diseases entering the country. All travellers must meet the requirements before entering Australia. You must declare certain food, plant material and animal products on your Incoming Passenger Card (IPC).
Australia ranks 7th on the OECD Better Life Index, based on living conditions and quality of life.
Anxiety disorders (such as Social Phobia) are the most common type of disorder, affecting 1 in 6 (17%, or 3.3 million) Australians, followed by Affective disorders (such as Depressive Episode) (8%), and Substance Use disorders (such as Alcohol Dependence) (3.%).
"The Aussie climate definitely drives a more active lifestyle simply because we tend to spend more time outdoors. We also have access to beautiful fresh produce all year round, which means it's easier to make better food choices and nourish our bodies in the right way."
Australia is internationally renowned for cricket, and the Australian Men's Cricket Team has a higher percentage of successful matches than any other international team. However, although Australia is particularly good at cricket, Australians also love rugby, netball, swimming and surfing and more.
Physical activity in Australia
more than half (55%) of adults do not meet the physical activity guidelines. 2 in 3 (70%) children aged 2 to 17 do not meet the guidelines. only 3 in 10 pregnant women meet the guidelines. only 2% of teenagers aged 13 to 17 meet the guidelines.
Australia's long been referred to as 'the lucky country' and now we can start saying we're one of the happiest countries in the world, too. The United Nation's 2023 World Happiness Index has just been released, and Australia has come in at a very cheery 12th position.
Moving onto the data below on life satisfaction, it is becoming increasingly clear that Australians feel far happier about their lifestyle than the British. In this survey, citizens from both the UK and Australia were asked to give an evaluation of their lives.
Australia has a much more laid-back culture than England. Australians are known for their mate ship and easy-going attitudes. There is a strong focus on enjoying life and having a good time. This doesn't mean that Australians don't work hard, but they definitely know how to enjoy their leisure time.
Australia ranks amongst the highest in the world for quality of life, health, education, economic freedom, civil liberties and political rights.
Common chronic conditions
arthritis – 3.6 million people (15.0%) asthma – 2.7 million people (11.2%) diabetes mellitus – 1.2 million people (4.9%)
A big factor of the Australian health care system is that it doesn't just cater to only those who are sick. Australia puts a big emphasis on disease prevention and health management so that emergency departments and public hospitals don't get overrun, believing that prevention is more cost-effective in the long term.
Keep in mind that although there aren't any laws against eating while driving, if it prevents you from concentrating and having full control of your vehicle you could be fined. The term for this is 'driver distraction' and is covered broadly in each Australian state.
Food waste accounts for approximately 3% of Australia's annual greenhouse gas emissions. Australia uses around 2600 gigalitres of water to grow food that is wasted – this equates to the volume of water in five Sydney Harbours.