Reported at www.themandarin.com.au: Life expectancy in Australia has decreased slightly, with current figures at 81.1 years for males and 85.1 years for females, according to the latest Productivity Commission report.

The report highlights an increase in affordability concerns that have led more people to delay seeking medical care, with 8.8% of respondents reporting cost as a barrier in 2023-24.

The health sector is facing workforce sustainability issues.