SYDNEY, 27 September 2025 – New data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has revealed a 2.3% increase in registered deaths across Australia in 2024, with the ageing population cited as the primary driver. According to the ABS, 68% of all deaths last year involved individuals over 75, a trend reflecting the nation’s growing proportion of older citizens. The Guardian reported that this shift has seen the proportion of deaths in this age group rise from 24% in 2014 to 26% in 2024, underscoring the impact of longer life expectancy.
Experts attribute this rise to Australia’s demographic transformation, with over 16% of the population now aged 65 and over, as noted by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Beidar Cho, ABS head of demography, highlighted that the standardised death rate has dropped from 5.47 deaths per 1,000 in 2014 to 5.08 in 2024, suggesting improved healthcare outcomes despite the higher raw numbers. However, the focus on ageing has sparked debate about other potential factors at play.
Some analysts have pointed to the absence of discussion around post-COVID health impacts, with international studies, such as a 2023 Lancet report, indicating a 10-15% rise in all-cause mortality in certain regions due to long-term effects. While the ABS data does not explore this angle, the omission has led to calls for a deeper investigation into whether lingering health challenges are contributing to the trend. Public health experts urge caution, noting that correlation does not imply causation.
Meanwhile, recent aged care reforms introduced in 2024 aim to address the needs of an ageing population, promising high-quality, person-centred care. The My Aged Care initiative seeks to support Australians whether they remain at home or move into residential care. As the nation grapples with these demographic shifts, policymakers are under pressure to ensure the healthcare system adapts to the evolving needs of its older residents, with further data expected to shed light on the full picture in the coming months.
