Zurich data finds Australians are living longer but not healthier

Zurich Financial Services Australia (Zurich) today published new analysis showing that while Australia is among the highest‑ranking nations for health system performance and reduced mortality, it faces rising levels of morbidity due to chronic illnesses.

The Zurich Chronic Care Index quantifies health system effectiveness relative to the mortality and morbidity burden of more than 200 chronic illnesses – such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and neurological disorders – across all 38 countries in the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Australia ranked eighth overall, characterised by low mortality levels and strong system capacity, outperforming countries such as New Zealand, Japan, Sweden, Canada, the United States and United Kingdom.

While medical advancements are helping Australians live longer, the Index found the nation ranked significantly lower than comparable countries for morbidity, as rising numbers of people are living with long-term illnesses requiring high levels of care.

Tim Kane, Head of Retail at Zurich said: “As one of Australia’s largest life insurers, we see the full spectrum of impacts caused by chronic conditions. People are living longer than ever before, but often with long-term illnesses that significantly impact how they live and work, as well as their financial security.”

“This research provides a valuable benchmark to identify strengths, gaps and potential future strains on Australia’s health system. In turn, insurers and other critical parts of the health ecosystem can develop more meaningful and targeted prevention and early intervention programs focused on improving people’s health, productivity and financial resilience,” Mr Kane said.

The Index identifies Australia’s leading contributors for morbidity as mental disorders (close to one in three people), musculoskeletal conditions (one in five) and neurological disorders (one in ten). In 2025, these three condition categories collectively accounted for close to 60 per cent of claims* at Zurich.

The largest contributor to mortality in Australia was neoplasms (two in five deaths), followed by cardiovascular diseases (around a quarter) and neurological disorders (one in ten).

The full report can be found online: The Value of Chronic Care

 

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