7 healthcare trends shaping health in Australia

Australia’s healthcare system is one of the strongest in the world. The industry has revolutionised in recent years, partly due to necessity during and after the pandemic. However, the pace of change is not showing signs of slowing down with key healthcare trends continuing to drive advancements.

To maintain the strength of the sector, our workforce must be at the forefront of healthcare innovations. Read on to discover how to stay abreast of the trends and how postgraduate study can help you advance in a rapidly changing industry.

7 trends in healthcare in 2025

With new advancements and discoveries, healthcare is a sector that is always evolving. Now more than ever, it’s critical that we pay attention to the trends to ensure the Australian healthcare system maintains its strength.

Discover seven key trends in healthcare that should be front of mind for all health professionals.

1. Ageing and preventative health

   Data from the National Health Survey reveals that one in two Australians suffers from at least one chronic health condition. Our population is also ageing at an increasing rate. The number of Australians aged 65 and over is projected to grow by six per cent leading up to 2026. By 2066, older Australians are expected to account for between 21 to 23 per cent of the population. As a result, innovative diagnostic tools and interventions are burgeoning in aged care and preventative medicine, which includes the integration of epigenetics.
   
   Epigenetics refers to changes in gene expression or function, which can be influenced by environmental factors, lifestyle or experiences and can sometimes be passed down to future generations. Essentially, epigenetics helps explain how external factors can affect the way our genes are turned on or off.
   
   Dr Carlotta Petti, DNA Nutrition consultant and scientific director of nutrigenomics at genetic testing company myDNA, says longevity is a particularly exciting healthcare trend in relation to ageing. She says individuals can use information from genetic testing to optimise their lifestyle and wellbeing for longevity.
   
   “With the most recent state-of-the-art epigenetic tests, we can measure a person’s biological age,” she adds. “This measures their current health status and potential for ageing well.”
   
   In the context of an ageing population, Dr Petti explains that there is a focus “on decreasing the global burden of disease and helping people to live healthier, longer lives”. This will ultimately lessen the impact of ageing and chronic conditions on the healthcare system.
   
   “We’re witnessing the emergence of longevity clinics across Australia, offering proven protocols for rejuvenation and longevity,” reveals Dr Petti. “From innovative technologies like magnetic fields and oxygen masks to treatments such as ice baths and infrared saunas, these clinics are paving the way for optimising health and improving quality of life.”

2. Precision nutrition

   As mentioned, the emergence of epigenetic profiling has seen an uptick in interventions that help support healthy living. This has opened up opportunities in the nutrition sector, with a branch of medicine referred to as personalised nutrition or nutrigenomics. This is another interesting field of health science that marries the findings of a person’s dietary habits and how they can influence gene expression.
   
   The benefit of using nutrigenomics is that it can guide practitioners in the development of personalised nutrition plans that are tailored to an individual’s specific genetic profile. For example, some people are born with an impaired capacity to break down certain B vitamins, saturated fats, caffeine and vitamin D. Knowledge of these predispositions can help tailor nutrition plans and dietary advice accordingly.
   
   In practical terms, this can support patients with weight management, optimised sleep, hormone health and energy levels. The utilisation of nutrigenomics also has downstream effects on genetic expression within subsequent generations, which means certain disease expressions, such as the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease and heart disease could be substantially mitigated. Precision nutrition is an exciting healthcare trend with promising utility to improve the health of Australians.

3. Digital health services

   Digital health services, such as telehealth, is a health trend that is now a necessity. More than a quarter of Australians have accessed telehealth services over the previous financial year and researchers predict that at least 50 per cent of all new health services will need to move to virtual delivery to meet the growing demands on the healthcare system.
   
   Beyond this, Dr Petti says that digital health services are increasingly moving into health and wellness through online programs. For example, she offers consultations for those who want to achieve optimal health and get personalised advice.
   
   Increasingly, dietitians, naturopaths, nutritionists and physiotherapists are delivering comprehensive self-paced programs to educate and empower people to live healthy lives.
   
   “With such a model, people get a comprehensive service to manage their issue, without overwhelming the practitioner’s capacity,” Dr Petti adds. “Patients can also access tests and prescriptions, all online.”
   
   For patients, especially those living in remote or regional areas, digital service offerings remove barriers to healthcare, making it more accessible and convenient. Digital health services put health information into more people’s hands when and where they need it.

4. Mental health

   Mental health is an increasingly prevalent issue, with 43 per cent of Australians reporting they have experienced a mental health disorder at some point in their lives.
   
   In the six years to 2023, GPs reported an 11 per cent increase in the number of patients presenting with mental health issues, with a further 12.2 million mental health-related pharmaceutical prescriptions administered. Researchers have also found a generational decline in mental health with those born in the 1980s and 1990s experiencing deteriorating mental health. Unlike previous generations, the mental health of this cohort isn’t improving as they age.
   
   More Australians are seeking support for their mental health, with GPs the most common port of call. The number of people seeing a psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor is on the rise, as is the number of people accessing digital mental health services or apps.
   
   In 2024 following a recommendation from the Mental Health Reform Advisory Committee, the Federal Government announced a $456 million dollar investment in digital mental health services. Similarly, access to psychology care is due to expand in the coming years with an increase in postgraduate psychology placements at several universities. These initiatives are designed to support the system to keep pace with demand for mental health care.
   
   As a broad disease group, mental health falls second behind cancer as responsible for 15 per cent of the burden of disease in Australia. Continued investment in and expansion of mental health services as a healthcare trend will help to minimise the impact of mental health on the healthcare system. Patients will also benefit from increased access to treatment options, influencing their quality of life and overall health.

5. Allied healthcare

   The allied health industry has undergone considerable growth of 67 per cent in recent years, with a rise in demand forecasted to continue over the next decade. The workforce totals around 300,000 professionals and comprises various disciplines, including chiropractors, dietitians, optometrists, pharmacists, physiotherapists and social workers.
   
   The upward trend in allied healthcare professionals in Australia is due to many factors. Our ageing population and high rates of chronic health conditions put pressure on primary healthcare systems. Allied health professionals can work collaboratively with doctors to alleviate the burden on primary healthcare services. They also help mitigate the need for medical interventions, reduce hospital admissions and help lower long-term healthcare costs for the individual and the economy.
   
   The growing emphasis on integrative and team-based care ensures that patients receive appropriate and timely treatment and gain access to preventive services that improve overall health and wellbeing. By focusing on early intervention, health promotion and education, allied health professionals can help patients manage risk factors and improve their quality of life.
   
   For instance, pharmacists can provide a range of services including vaccine administration and medicine prescription and monitoring, while physiotherapists can work on improving mobility and reducing pain. Allied healthcare is a trending facet of Australia's healthcare landscape, coming into sharper focus to ensure that patient care remains effective, accessible and sustainable.

6. Emerging technologies

   Generative AI has been big news for various industries, including healthcare. AI is one of a broader set of emerging technologies that make up one of the most significant health trends in Australia.
   
   Dr Petti says the health industry is seeking what’s known as ‘omics’ technologies to become more and more clinically relevant. Omics can influence and boost early detection of diseases and predispositions, as well as diagnostics and prescription of personalised treatments.
   
   “For example, we are already seeing the use of pharmacogenomics in daily prescribing protocols,” she explains. “Genomic testing is also being used for pre-natal or condition-specific predisposition screening to support important clinical decisions.”
   
   However, only 44 per cent of Australians believe the benefits of AI will outweigh its risks. To foster trust and acceptance, AI applications in healthcare must be implemented thoughtfully, addressing the concerns of patients, families and health professionals alike.
   
   AI has the potential to enhance efficiency by streamlining repetitive or routine tasks. For instance, AI supports radiologists by enabling faster, more precise extraction, analysis and interpretation of medical images. This not only reduces time spent monitoring and scanning patients, but can also alleviate burnout, improving overall workflow and help provide optimal patient care.
   
   Current and emerging AI applications will likely integrate into clinical workflows for healthcare professionals across various fields. An example of the current AI utility is in psychology practice, where this technology can be used to support transcription and treatment plan development. When used appropriately, AI can help psychologists to streamline clinical processes, which ultimately helps them provide better patient care.
   
   While the possibilities of this emerging technology are exciting, there are concerns that must be considered alongside broader implementation. “The advent of these technologies introduces a much bigger amount of data and analytics than before, which needs to be treated with confidentiality and security,” cautions Dr Petti.
   
   Importantly, these advancements can support the workflow and administrative needs of healthcare workers, however, it cannot replace the importance of humans as compassionate caregivers in the healthcare industry.

7. Health monitoring devices and bioengineering

   The technology trend is echoing right across the health sector. Wearable devices are an accessible option that puts health information in the hands of the patient. The use of devices like smartwatches, glasses, tattoos, wearable ECG monitors and jewellery gives feedback on various health metrics including blood pressure, heart rate, blood glucose levels and brain activity. This technology has positive benefits for consumers, as it enables more personalised health management and drives greater self-responsibility for individual health outcomes.
   
   Live monitoring of acute and chronic diseases through implantable and ingestible medical devices are among some of the more intriguing modern bioengineering innovations in healthcare. Smart Pills are one example of such devices, which help track medication compliance, monitor gut health and detect digestive disease. These tools empower more effective management of illnesses by providing continuous data and treatment options tailored to each individual’s needs.
   
   Cardiac implantable electronic devices are widely employed to monitor, detect and treat a range of heart conditions. These technologies have the potential to play a crucial role supporting healthcare workers in various fields by predicting and preventing health deterioration, reducing hospital admissions and encouraging healthier lifestyles for individuals with chronic conditions.

Adapt to trends in the healthcare industry with postgraduate study

These healthcare trends will reshape the sector. Dr Petti argues that education is key to keeping abreast of progress.

“Getting to know new technologies is the most important skill,” she adds. “Providers of new technologies should also engage in education so all involved can make the best use of the tools available.”

For healthcare professionals, postgraduate study is a great way to learn relevant skills and knowledge for the changing healthcare landscape.

For example, the Master of Advanced Nursing Majoring in Chronic and Complex Care from the University of Technology Sydney will accelerate your knowledge in ageing and preventative care. With a focus on person-centred care, the course is contemporary and comprehensive, preparing you for leadership in the sector.

To pursue a career in digital health services, consider the Master of Health Services Management Majoring in Quality and Safety, also from the University of Technology Sydney. In addition to developing your expertise on health systems and services, opt for a sub-major in digital health to understand the fundamentals and approaches in this specialisation.

With the growing mental health trend, the Southern Cross University Master of Mental Health offers contemporary insight into holistic mental health treatment. This course teaches evidence-based theories for application in a range of mental health settings.

The Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing from Victoria University gives an important foundation for nurses who want to advance their nursing skills and apply evidence-based interventions for patients struggling with mental health conditions.

Are you ready to drive your healthcare career further?

If you’re looking to expand your career in Australia’s evolving healthcare industry, GlobalHealth Education’s university partner’s postgraduate courses can set you up for success in 2025.

Explore the range of postgraduate health courses, choose one that suits your career needs and speak to a Student Enrolment Advisor for more guidance on the enrolment process. They can answer questions about postgraduate study, what to expect from your course and how to get started advancing your career.