Nearly 2.2 million Australians aged 15 and over are currently living below what has been described as the wellbeing poverty line, according to an analysis of recent survey data. In 2025, approximately 9.7 percent of the population, or about one in ten Australians, rated their overall life satisfaction at four or below on a scale of one to ten. This marks a significant increase from 2014, when only 4.8 percent reported similarly low levels of satisfaction.

The figures are based on the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ General Social Survey and were analyzed to assess trends in life satisfaction over the past decade. The proportion of Australians experiencing very low life satisfaction has more than doubled since 2014, highlighting growing concerns about mental health and wellbeing across the country.

Experts and analysts point to the rising cost of living as a key factor contributing to the decline in life satisfaction. Many households have faced increasing financial pressure due to inflation in essentials such as housing, utilities, and food, which may be undermining overall wellbeing.

This trend signals a widening gap in quality of life for a substantial segment of the population. The concept of "wellbeing poverty" captures how economic hardship extends beyond traditional income measurements to affect individuals’ subjective experiences of happiness and fulfillment.

The data underscores the need for policymakers to consider mental health and social wellbeing in planning economic and social interventions. Addressing the root causes of financial and emotional stress may be crucial in reversing the growing trend of low life satisfaction reported by Australians.