Dementia deaths hit record share in Australia as asthma fatalities surge
Dementia accounted for over 10% of all deaths in Australia for the first time, while asthma deaths reached decade-high levels.
At a glance
- Dementia accounted for over 10% of all deaths in Australia for the first time
- 19,019 dementia deaths were recorded out of 188,421 total deaths in 2025
- Asthma deaths have reached decade-high levels
- Dementia has been the leading cause of death since 2024
Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, has become the leading cause of death in Australia, accounting for more than 10% of all deaths for the first time, according to data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Of 188,421 deaths registered in 2025, 19,019 were caused by dementia.
The data also shows that deaths from asthma have reached their highest levels in a decade. Dementia has held the position of leading cause of death since 2024.
Why it matters
The data reflects shifting mortality patterns in Australia, with age-related conditions becoming increasingly prominent among causes of death.
Original reporting
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