Summary：Australia's Health Report Card Reveals Wins, Yet Alarming Shortfalls Persist, Experts Say EXPERT**I

Australia's Health Report Card Reveals Wins, Yet Alarming Shortfalls Persist, Experts Say

EXPERT

**Introduction**
The latest national health report card, released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, paints a mixed picture of the country’s wellbeing. While certain indicators show steady improvement, others reveal persistent gaps that demand urgent policy attention. Experts warn that celebrating isolated gains without addressing systemic weaknesses could jeopardize long‑term public health gains.

**Key Developments**
On the positive side, life expectancy has risen to 83.2 years, marking a modest increase over the past decade. Vaccination coverage for childhood diseases now exceeds 95 %, and smoking rates have fallen to a historic low of 11 % among adults. Mental health service utilization also grew, with a 12 % rise in Medicare‑subsidised psychology sessions reported in 2023‑24.

Conversely, obesity prevalence remains stubbornly high, affecting 31 % of adults and 25 % of children. Indigenous Australians continue to experience a life