Dementia Prevalence Data Estimates and Projections

Dementia prevalence data research is of vital importance for Australian governments, researchers and research institutions, policy planners, media and the health and aged care sectors, in helping to understand the impact of dementia in Australia. The data helps to inform planning and funding of services and programs around Australia to meet current and future needs.

This dementia prevalence data indicates the number of Australians that are currently living with dementia and younger onset dementia, and projects what this number will increase to by 2054.

The prevalence data estimates and projections for dementia were modelled by the National Centre for Monitoring Dementia (NCMD) at the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) established in 2021. The team has used a standard demographic modelling approach, in which age-sex dementia prevalence rates calculated by the AIHW were applied to age-sex population estimates and projected population estimates. 

The NCMD undertakes routine monitoring of dementia data to inform specific policy needs for Australians living with dementia. There are ongoing efforts to improve the accuracy of dementia prevalence estimates in Australia. As a result, the approach used to estimate the prevalence of dementia will likely be superseded in coming years as findings from these initiatives become available. 

Dementia Advocates request when using these figures to please use 'living with dementia' and avoid the use of the words 'sufferers' or 'suffering from'.


Australia – All forms of dementia

Prevalence summary – National, State and Territory – all forms of dementia

Federal Electoral Divisions– Prevalence Data Estimates 2024-2054

State and Territory Electoral Divisions – Prevalence Data Estimates 2024-2054

Local Government Areas – Prevalence Data Estimates 2024-2054

In 2024 it is estimated there are more than 421,000 people living with all forms of dementia. This figure is projected to increase to more than 812,500 by 2054 with a projected percentage change of 93%.

In 2024, it is estimated that more than 1.6 million people in Australia are involved in the care of someone living with dementia.


Australia – Younger onset dementia (diagnosed under the age of 65)

In 2024, it is estimated there are almost 29,000 people living with younger onset dementia. This figure is projected to increase to almost 41,000 by 2054 with a projected percentage change of 41%

If you have any questions regarding this data or would like to learn more about the 2024 dementia prevalence data, please email [email protected].


Key facts and statistics

Please visit our key  facts and statistics page to learn about the Australian statistics for dementia in 2024.