National wellbeing in Australia drops sharply as safety and living costs worry
National wellbeing fell 3.2 points to 54.8 out of 100, driven by concerns about safety, security and costs.
The Australian Unity Wellbeing Index surveyed more than 10,000 people in April and May, then tracked almost 1,500 of the same people again in September. Personal wellbeing stayed roughly flat, while national wellbeing took a bigger hit.
Satisfaction with safety and future security fell further. Fewer people felt satisfied with their standard of living.
More than 83% of Australians believe housing costs will have a high negative impact on future generations. Concerns about AI's impact surged 9.3 percentage points in just four months, rising 15.1 points among people over 65.
Despite these worries, Australians share a clear vision for what they want: a country that is safe, socially connected, environmentally sustainable, fair and affordable.
- 54.8 out of 100
- National wellbeing score
- 3.2 points
- National wellbeing decline
- more than 10,000
- Survey participants April-May
- 83% believe high negative impact
- Housing cost concern
Why it mattersNational wellbeing fell as Australians worry more about housing costs and AI. Fewer people feel secure about living standards and the future.
AustraliaAustralians are worried about their children's futures, especially on housing costs and AI. Two-thirds say they feel responsible for the next generation's wellbeing, but confidence in national direction is slipping.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 3 h ago
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