The number of Australians under 65 living with dementia is projected to rise by 40% by 2054, as per new data released by Dementia Australia. Currently, the estimated count of Australians living with dementia has reached 446,500, up from 433,300 in 2025. Among them, 29,000 individuals aged 18-65 are coping with young-onset dementia, a figure expected to surpass 41,000 by 2054.
Dementia Australia also highlighted that around 1,500 children in Australia are affected by childhood dementia. In 2024, dementia became the leading cause of death in Australia, accounting for 9.4% of all deaths, according to official records. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported that the number of Australians with dementia is predicted to more than double to over one million by 2065.
Tanya Buchanan, CEO of Dementia Australia, emphasized the urgent need for a national brain health promotion program and quality care services for individuals of all ages with dementia. While acknowledging Australia’s global recognition in dementia care, she stressed the importance of enhancing certain areas within the system. The organization has urged the government to initiate a comprehensive brain health campaign, establish a national support services network, and enhance workforce capabilities in dementia care.
Dementia, a syndrome resulting from various diseases that damage nerve cells and the brain over time, leads to cognitive function decline beyond normal aging effects. While consciousness remains unaffected, cognitive impairment is often accompanied by changes in mood, behavior, and motivation.
