Australians are reporting an improvement in their quality of life for the first time in three years, according to Bupa’s annual Pulse Check survey. The findings reveal that mental health, work-life balance, physical fitness, and finances have all improved compared to last year, signaling a positive shift in overall health and wellbeing.

Healthier habits emerging

While many aspects of Australians’ wellbeing have improved, a new trend has emerged around weight loss. Two-thirds of Australians are unhappy with their current weight, and one in four who are looking to lose weight say they’d consider weight loss drugs like Ozempic. At the same time, concerns about chronic conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke are rising, with 71% of Australians expressing worry about developing these diseases.

The national survey, conducted by Quantum Market Research in partnership with Bupa, found that more people are successfully managing their health and wellbeing compared to previous years. In fact, 30% of respondents said their quality of life was better than it was last year.

Prioritising self-care and fitness

More Australians are prioritising self-care, engaging in activities like meditation, journaling, yoga, and trying new wellness trends. Gym workouts, swimming, and team sports are among the most popular fitness activities.

Tasmania led the nation with the highest overall quality of life, followed by the ACT, Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia, and South Australia. In Victoria, more residents reported participating in physical activity, while Tasmanians were hitting the gym more. Queenslanders were focusing on structured diets, and New South Welshmen were cutting back on alcohol consumption more than the previous year.

Key survey highlights:

  • 63% of Australians take vitamins or supplements regularly, and 45% are reducing their alcohol consumption.
  • 71% of employed Australians report experiencing burnout, citing workload, poor work-life balance, and lack of resources as main contributors.
  • 86% are taking steps to improve their mental health, with exercise, healthy eating, and spending time with friends topping the list of activities.
  • 46% of respondents are engaging in self-care activities such as meditation or gratitude practice.
  • Baby Boomers are the only generation where the majority believe they are healthier than the previous generation.
  • 2 in 5 Australians find managing their health and wellbeing difficult, with cost and lack of motivation being key obstacles.

A growing focus on mental health

With 86% of Australians taking steps to improve their mental health, many are prioritising activities like exercise, healthy eating, and spending time with loved ones. A growing number of Australians are turning to digital health services, with 60% using telehealth in the past year.

Bupa’s Managing Director Kate Williams said that while Australians face rising chronic diseases and an aging population, it’s encouraging to see a positive shift in attitudes towards health and wellbeing. “More people are putting themselves first, prioritising self-care, and adopting healthier habits such as healthy eating and reducing alcohol,” she said.

Looking ahead to better health outcomes

As we navigate these changing health priorities, it’s clear that small, intentional changes in everyday habits can lead to a significantly improved quality of life. Whether through prioritising exercise, reducing stress, or making healthier food choices, Australians are showing that the path to better health is very much within their reach.

To read the full Bupa Pulse Check report and discover more about the findings, click here.