Australians Are Living Longer, but Spending More Years in Poor Health

Australians are living longer than in previous decades, but the time spent in “full health” is not keeping pace with increased longevity. According to a new report by the Australian Institute Health and Welfare (AIHW), while life expectancy has rebounded to 81.6 years for men and 85.5 years for women, the average time spent in poor health has risen since 2003, leaving many to manage chronic conditions alongside their extended lifespans.

The Gap Between Longevity and ‘Full Health’

Modern medicine and improved living conditions have successfully pushed life expectancy higher, yet the quality of those additional years remains a point of concern. Data from the AIHW indicates that a man born in 2024 can expect 71.7 years of “full health,” while a woman can expect 73.8 years. This suggests that, on average, Australians spend about 87% of their lives in full health.

It is important to note that “full health” does not mean an absence of any medical history. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines healthy life expectancy as a population measure that accounts for years lived with disease or injury. Many individuals in their 40s and 50s manage high blood pressure, arthritis, or take routine medications while still maintaining high levels of daily functionality.

Redefining Health Beyond Clinical Metrics

Health is increasingly viewed as more than just the absence of illness. Research suggests that a person’s self-rated health—how they perceive their own well-being—is a powerful predictor of longevity. A review of 27 community studies found that self-rated health accurately predicted death rates, even when controlling for external factors like housing, income, and ethnicity.

For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, the definition of health is particularly holistic. As outlined in the AIHW’s Indigenous Health Performance Framework, social and emotional wellbeing is foundational. This perspective views health through the lens of connection to Country, culture, kin, and community, which are often not fully captured by conventional medical metrics.

Can We Extend Our Healthy Years?

Preventative behaviors remain the most effective tool for extending healthy life expectancy. According to Professor Lauren Ball of The University of Queensland, limiting alcohol, maintaining physical activity, eating a nutritious diet, and avoiding smoking are primary drivers of better health outcomes. However, individual choices are only part of the equation.

Broader social determinants—such as access to safe housing, reliable transport, education, and social connection—are critical. While Australian health policy is shifting to support more people aging in their own homes, current support systems are struggling to keep pace with the needs of both the elderly and their caregivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Does living longer mean I will be sick for longer? Not necessarily. While the average time spent in “less than full health” has risen, many people continue to work, travel, and volunteer while managing chronic conditions.
• What is ‘healthy life expectancy’? It is the average number of years a person can expect to live in “full health,” calculated by subtracting years lived with disability or illness from total life expectancy.
• Can I improve my healthy life expectancy? Yes. According to AIHW data, lifestyle choices like physical activity and diet are significant, though systemic support in housing and healthcare also plays a vital role.

How are you prioritizing your long-term health today? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more insights on healthy aging.