Allergic Diseases Cost Australia $18.9 Billion, Report Finds
A 2025 report estimates that allergic diseases cost the Australian economy approximately $18.9 billion in 2024, affecting about one-third of the population.
The report by Deloitte Access Economics calculated the substantial economic cost, which is primarily composed of productivity losses from work absences, efficiency losses, and health system costs.
Among children, food allergies are reported to affect an estimated one in ten. Hay fever is identified as the most common allergic condition in Australia, followed by eczema, asthma, and food and drug allergies.
Government and Research Response
In 2022, the federal government established the National Allergy Centre for Excellence (NACE) as a peak research body for allergic disease.
Professor Kirsten Perrett, director of NACE, has publicly commented on the report's findings. Professor Perrett stated that more investment is required for researchers, studies, and clinical trials to explore the underlying mechanisms of allergies, discover and test new treatments and prevention approaches, and improve care for people living with allergies.
Understanding Allergy Trends
Professor Perrett provided context on potential factors in the prevalence of allergies. She stated that the overall rise in allergies may be related to a lack of exposure to allergens and environmental factors in early life, emphasizing the importance of such exposure for developing immune systems.
Regarding food allergies specifically, Professor Perrett noted that new infant feeding guidelines appear to have been associated with a halt in the rise of this condition among infants. She added that this trend has not been observed for other types of allergies.
A Parent's Perspective
Natalie Nguyen, a parent of a child with food allergies, provided a personal perspective. She expressed concern about children with allergies feeling ostracized due to dietary restrictions. Nguyen also stated she hopes for more effective treatments in the future.