Health · Public Health & Disease · 2 hrs ago
Dementia caused more than 10% of Australian deaths in 2025
Australia registered 188,421 deaths in 2025, according to new national statistics.
Dementia caused 19,019 deaths, accounting for more than one in 10 for the first time.
It has been the country's leading cause of death since 2024, and an estimated 446,500 Australians are living with dementia.
The data also recorded 484 asthma deaths, the highest number in a decade, up from 478 in 2024.
Experts say many asthma deaths are preventable, as poorly controlled asthma and not using preventive treatment can raise the risk.
Women accounted for almost two-thirds of deaths from both asthma and dementia.
The figures have prompted calls for greater recognition and support for people affected by dementia, while asthma specialists urge people to discuss their treatment with a doctor.
Dementia caused 19,019 deaths in Australia in 2025, more than 10% of all registered deaths.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics said 188,421 deaths were registered that year.
Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, has been Australia’s leading cause of death since 2024.
Asthma deaths also reached a decade high, with 484 deaths in 2025.
Drug-induced deaths rose to 2,063, while suicide remained the leading cause of premature death for both males and females.
- Who
- The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported the deaths; dementia and asthma were among the causes.
- What
- Dementia caused 19,019 deaths, more than 10% of all Australian deaths in 2025. Asthma caused 484 deaths.
- When
- 2025; the ABS data was released on Tuesday, as reported on 27 October 2026.
- Where
- Australia.
- Why
- Not stated
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Dementia became Australia’s leading cause of death.
Asthma deaths numbered 478.
Australia registered 188,421 deaths, including 19,019 caused by dementia.
Asthma deaths rose to 484, the highest number recorded in a decade.
Guardian Australia reported the ABS deaths data released on Tuesday.
- Registered deaths in Australia, 2025
- 188,421
- Dementia deaths, 2025
- 19,019
- Share of deaths caused by dementia
- More than 10%
- Asthma deaths, 2025
- 484
- Drug-induced deaths, 2025
- 2,063
What people are saying
The data underlines the critical need for more recognition and funding to support people living with dementia, their families and carers
We have effective treatments and clear clinical guidelines, yet too many Australians are not getting the care they need to stay well