Australians Report Improved Quality of Life Amid Ongoing Health Concerns
A recent survey has shown that Australians are experiencing an overall improvement in their quality of life for the first time in three years, although mental health concerns continue to affect many. The 2025 Bupa Pulse Check, conducted by Quantum Market Research, surveyed 2,000 people across Australia and found that 30% reported an improvement in their quality of life over the past year. Key factors contributing to this improvement included better mental health outcomes, financial stability, increased fitness, and improved work-life balance.
Despite these positive trends, the survey revealed that two-thirds of respondents expressed dissatisfaction with their weight, with one in four considering weight-loss medications such as semaglutides, including Ozempic. The report also showed that 71% of Australians remain concerned about developing chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and stroke. In response to these concerns, there’s been an increase in self-care activities, including meditation, healthy eating, and exercise, with gym workouts, swimming, and team sports being among the top fitness choices.
Tasmania led the country in reported quality of life outcomes, followed by the ACT, Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia, and South Australia. Bupa Health Insurance managing director Kate Williams noted that health management behaviors are shifting, with more people prioritizing self-care and adopting healthier habits.
Mental Health Concerns Persist
The survey also highlighted the ongoing burden of workplace stress, with 70% of employed Australians citing burnout, largely linked to workload and poor work-life balance. In response, 86% of those surveyed have adopted mental health strategies such as exercise, healthier eating, and stronger social connections. A separate report by KPMG found a significant increase in total and permanent disability (TPD) claims related to mental health among Australians aged 30 to 40, with a 732% rise over the past decade.
The insurance sector is also feeling the impact of mental health concerns, with a 2024 well-being survey by the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance reporting that 48% of insurance professionals said job stress had negatively affected their mental well-being in the past year.
Healthcare Access Remains a Challenge
The Bupa survey highlighted ongoing issues with healthcare access, particularly for younger adults, with 46% of respondents finding the healthcare system difficult to navigate. However, telehealth usage has grown, especially among those in metropolitan areas. About half of the respondents reported increased use of active transport such as walking, running, or cycling.
A separate study by Money.com.au revealed widespread confusion around Australia’s private health insurance tier system, despite reforms introduced five years ago. More than half of policyholders said they only partially understood how the tiered coverage system worked, while 13% said they found the structure just as confusing as previous insurance models. Affordability remains a key issue, with 24% of Australians with private hospital cover saying they purchased insurance primarily to avoid the Medicare Levy Surcharge.
