Allergies on the rise in Australia - what this means to you as a first responder
Epipens used for temporary severe allergic reactions (Anaphylaxis)
One in Three Australians Now Live with Allergies – What It Means for First Responders
A new report has revealed a startling truth: nearly one in three Australians (about 8.2 million people) now suffer from an allergic disease—a jump from just 19.6% in 2007. This growing health challenge is more than just a statistic—it’s reshaping lives and placing immense pressure on families and communities. YouTubeMedical Republic+7ABC+7The West Australian+7
The Economic and Emotional Toll
The “Costly Reactions” report by Deloitte Access Economics, in collaboration with the National Allergy Council (NAC) and ASCIA, paints a sobering picture:
Financial burden: Allergic diseases cost the Australian economy a staggering $18.9 billion per year, through healthcare expenses, lost productivity, and reduced efficiency. The West Australian+11nace.org.au+11Allergy.org.au+11
Wellbeing impact: Beyond money, intangible costs—such as pain, anxiety, and diminished quality of life—are estimated at $44.6 billion annually. Wikipedia+14nace.org.au+14Allergy.org.au+14
What this means personally: The average affected person incurs about $2,318 in direct costs and $5,470 in emotional or wellbeing-related loss. 9News+4Murdoch Children's Research Institute+4nace.org.au+4
Why Allergies Are Surging
Experts point to several environmental and lifestyle factors driving this rise:
Urbanisation and pollution
Hyper-sanitized environments reducing natural immune training
Greater awareness and better diagnostics catching more cases than before Internewscast Journal+13ABC+13Murdoch Children's Research Institute+13YouTube+6Medical Republic+6The West Australian+6The Nightly
In fact, Australia now has one of the highest rates of infant food allergy globally, affecting one in 10 babies—a deeply concerning trend. Internewscast Journal+69News+6The West Australian+6
Implications for First Aid Providers
At Gungahlia First Aid, we’re seeing these trends firsthand—many of our students, and often their children, live with known allergies. That’s why we've placed extra emphasis on equipping learners with:
Rapid response skills for anaphylaxis, including the proper use of an EpiPen
Awareness of allergy signs—swelling, hives, trouble breathing—and when to act immediately
Confidence and composure, especially when children or vulnerable individuals are involved
In a country where such reactions are fast becoming everyday emergencies, solid, practical training isn't just useful—it’s vital.
Why Small, Focused First Aid Training Makes a Difference
Large, impersonal classes can't provide the level of readiness needed. At Gungahlia, our small, friendly classes mean each participant receives hands-on practice, personalized guidance, and meaningful feedback—especially around allergy emergencies.
As allergic diseases continue to reshape lives—and cost the nation billions—the need for skilled, confident first responders is greater than ever. We're proud to be training compassionate, capable community members who can act when every second counts.
References & Further Reading
ABC News, One in three Australians have an allergic disease couriermail.com.au+11ABC+11ABC+11
Deloitte Access Economics “Costly Reactions” report via NAC & ASCIA The Nightly+13nace.org.au+13Allerg