News
27 October, 2025
We’re feeling a bit better
AUSTRALIANS feel better about the nation than last year, but personal wellbeing and inequality remain major concerns, according to the 2025 Australian Unity Wellbeing Index.
The survey, now in its 25th year and conducted by Australian Unity and Deakin University, captured responses from nearly 10,000 adults – the largest sample to date.
It found national wellbeing has improved, with Australians reporting higher satisfaction with government, business and the economy. Personal wellbeing, covering health, relationships and standard of living, has remained largely unchanged.
The research also revealed persistent divides. Lower-income households and younger Australians reported the lowest levels of personal and national wellbeing. Regional communities fared worse than city dwellers across national indicators, while inner metropolitan residents reported the highest satisfaction with health but the lowest with relationships. Rural areas showed the opposite pattern: strong relationship satisfaction but lower health scores.
Lead researcher Dr Kate Lycett said the findings reveal more than economic trends, highlighting the need for policies that prioritise wellbeing.
“Wellbeing inequities are not inevitable,” she said. “Reducing these gaps benefits everyone.”
Australian Unity’s Rohan Mead warned the ageing population and regional disparities could place growing pressure on health and social systems. “We must build a future-ready system that supports wellbeing across generations and geographies,” he said.
