Almost half a million Australians are currently living with dementia, the country’s leading cause of death, Dementia Australia has revealed. The number of people affected by the condition has risen to an estimated 446,500 in 2026 and is projected to more than double to over one million by 2065.

The data also shows that around 29,000 people aged 18 to 65 are living with young onset dementia, a figure expected to grow to 41,000 by 2054. Additionally, approximately 1,500 children are living with childhood dementia in Australia. In New South Wales alone, an estimated 145,700 people have dementia this year, with projections indicating an increase to 252,800 by 2054.

Dementia Australia Chief Executive Professor Tanya Buchanan highlighted the rapid rise in dementia cases, stressing the urgent need for a national program to promote brain health and provide quality care and support for people of all ages living with the condition, as well as their families and carers.

Professor Buchanan called for significant federal investment in implementing the National Dementia Action Plan, a ten-year framework released in late 2024 aimed at improving the lives of people living with dementia and their carers. She added that while Australia is recognised internationally for its dementia care, support, and research, further improvements are needed, making funding the Action Plan essential for all Australians impacted by dementia.