A new government report reveals Australia spent $270.5 billion on health in 2023-24, with Australians now living longer despite challenges from chronic diseases and rising out-of-pocket costs.Life expectancy for males born in 2022-2024 is 81.1 years, while females are expected to live to 85.1 years.However, 61% of Australians live with chronic conditions, and one in five experience mental health issues like anxiety or depression.Healthcare spending continues to rise, with hospital care accounting for 42% of total expenditure.Out-of-pocket costs have climbed to $44 billion annually, driven by a 1.4% annual increase since 2013-14.

Mental health diagnoses are growing, particularly among young people aged 16-24, with antidepressant prescriptions rising from 120 to 139 per 1,000 people.Health inequalities persist, with death rates in lower socioeconomic areas 1.5 times higher than in affluent regions.

The report highlights the need for preventive care and equitable access to services, as avoidable health issues like overweight and obesity now surpass tobacco smoking as the leading risk factor.Experts warn that Australia's health system must shift from reactive treatment to proactive prevention to address chronic diseases effectively.