Australia tops health rankings compared to other high-income countries in the Anglosphere, according to a study published in the open-access medical journal BMJ Open. The research, which analyzed life expectancy trends from 1990 to 2018 across English-speaking nations like New Zealand, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, found that Australia has consistently topped the charts in life expectancy at birth since the 1990s.
While Australia’s health achievements are commendable, the study notes there’s still room for improvement, particularly in addressing the disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations. The researchers suggest that Australia could serve as a model for lower-performing Anglophone countries like the USA and UK, which could learn from Australia’s approach to reducing both premature mortality and health inequalities.
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A Snapshot of Australia’s Age and Gender Distribution
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) recently released data highlighting the age and gender distribution across the country in 2023. Darwin, the Northern Territory’s capital, stands out with the youngest median age among Australian cities. Beidar Cho, the ABS head of demography, pointed out that Darwin’s median age is a year younger than the next youngest capital, Canberra. Additionally, Darwin is unique in having more males than females, with 104.7 males for every 100 females.
Australia’s median age by capital city
Demographer Liz Allen from the Australian National University (ANU) observed that aging in Australia is more pronounced in regional areas outside the capital cities, creating significant age disparities, particularly in remote areas. This demographic trend highlights the need for tailored service provisions to support these communities and mitigate adverse social outcomes.
| Median age and sex ratio by capital city | ||
|---|---|---|
| Capital city | Median age (years) | Sex ratio |
| Sydney | 36.8 | 99.0 |
| Melbourne | 36.6 | 97.9 |
| Brisbane | 36.5 | 98.2 |
| Adelaide | 39.2 | 96.0 |
| Perth | 37.6 | 99.6 |
| Hobart | 38.9 | 95.6 |
| Darwin | 34.6 | 104.7 |
| Canberra | 35.6 | 97.5 |
| Total capital cities | 37.0 | 98.4 |
| Total Australia | 38.3 | 98.6 |
The Secret to Australia’s Health Success
One of the key factors behind Australia’s leading life expectancy is its high proportion of people born overseas. Health economist Martin Henscher explains that countries with high levels of immigration, like Australia, tend to have better life expectancy rates because immigrants often arrive in good health, boosting the overall figures.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while global life expectancy dropped by 1.6 years, Australia managed to buck the trend. An infectious diseases expert attributes this to Australia’s effective pandemic response, which further solidified its standing as a leader in health outcomes.
| Life Expectancy Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| Country | Male | Female |
| Australia | 81.2 | 85.3 |
| United Kingdom | 78.57 | 82.57 |
| United States | 74.8 | 80.2 |
| Canada | 79.28 | 83.84 |
| New Zealand | 80 | 83.5 |
| Source: ABS, StatsCan, Stats NZ, CDC, UK ONS |
Lower smoking rates, effective public health campaigns on gun ownership and mental health, and a robust healthcare system have also contributed to Australia’s health successes. The study found that Australia enjoys a life expectancy advantage of about four to five years over the US and one to 2.5 years over Canada, New Zealand, and the UK.
A Warning Against Complacency
Despite these successes, experts caution against complacency. Dr. Henscher warns that Australia’s growing economic inequalities could erode its life expectancy gains if not addressed. He emphasizes the need for continued public health measures, such as maintaining restrictions on gambling advertising and tackling critical health determinants like housing and air quality.
Homelessness and poor air quality, particularly in urban areas, pose significant risks to life expectancy and overall health. Ensuring access to decent housing and addressing pollution are essential steps in maintaining Australia’s health lead.
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The study also highlights the significant health disparities between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, especially in the Northern Territory. Dr. Henscher urges that while Australia’s overall performance is strong, it’s crucial not to overlook these internal inequalities.
Australia’s health outcomes are a testament to its successful public health strategies and diverse population. However, to maintain and improve these outcomes, particularly among its most vulnerable populations, continued vigilance and targeted action are required.
