In December 2010, only 36% of Australians had a Body Mass Index (BMI) indicating an acceptable weight, down from 40% in September 2001.

The shift towards a larger body mass is supported by figures showing 27% of the population were obese in December 2010, up from 23% in September 2001. Over the same period, those considered overweight rose from 34% to 35%.


Body Mass Index of Australians


Source: Roy Morgan Single Source, Australian population 18+, average 12 monthly moving average Sept 01 – Dec 2010, n =51,851.


Similar shifts are reflected in attitudes to weight loss. As of December 2010, 64% of the population reported they would like to be able to lose weight, compared to 62% in March 2001.

Despite this, those who considered a low fat diet a way of life declined from 36% to 33% between March 2001 and December 2010, and the number of Australians constantly watching their weight was down from 42% to 40% over the same period.


Norman Morris, Industry Communications Director, Roy Morgan Research, says:

“Our rising weight is likely an indication of our changing lifestyles. But despite more Australians becoming overweight and obese, we seem to becoming less interested in dieting and weight watching.

“The findings raise many questions such as, ‘is our increasing weight simply a reflection of our aging population?’ ‘Can it be explained by a more sedentary lifestyle or more fast food?’ ‘Is it a male problem or a female problem?’ Or ‘is it different by geographical location?’

“For those wanting to explore research at a deeper level, to understand relationships between BMI and age, gender, socioeconomic status, eating preferences and activities, all the data is available on subscription.”

For in-depth information purchase Roy Morgan Body Mass Index (BMI) profiles, including profiles on people who are obese or overweight. These profiles provide a broad understanding of people within different BMI classifications, in terms of demographics, attitudes, activities and media usage in Australia.

For a comprehensive look at trends within Australian society over the past decade, purchase the complete Australian State of the Nation Report. This report provides information on other economic trends, as well as society, technology, politics and the environment.


For more details contact:

info@roymorganonlinestore.com