Number of young Australians with dementia to soar

More than a million Australians are projected to develop dementia in the next four decades, with the number of early onset cases expected to soar, advocates say.

Data released on Thursday reveals people living with young onset dementia, when the syndrome is diagnosed before the age of 65, will rise by 40 per cent over the next 30 years.

Dementia Australia chief executive Tanya Buchanan said action is needed immediately, which can start by significant intervention.

"There is a critical demand for a national program to promote brain health throughout our lives as well as a pressing need to provide quality care and support services for people of all ages living with dementia, their families and carers," Professor Buchanan said.

Dementia is the nation's leading cause of death, accounting for 9.4 per cent of all deaths in 2024.

More than 17,000 people died from dementia including Alzheimer's disease during that period, with 62 per cent of dementia-related deaths being women, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

The ABS believes the increase of dementia deaths was likely due to people living longer, which raises the chances of developing dementia towards the end of their lives.

Data released by Dementia Australia shows that around 446,000 people are currently living with dementia, a figure projected to surpass one million by 2065.

Prof Buchanan said essential investment is needed from the federal government in implementing the 10-year National Dementia Action Plan, which was unveiled in 2024,

The plan seeks to improve support for people living with dementia and their carers, while strengthening the workforce's ability to provide effective care and assistance.

It also calls for a brain health campaign to raise awareness of the condition and to promote brain health.

"Australia is recognised internationally for its strengths in dementia care, support and research, but the system still has areas that need improvement," Prof Buchanan said.

"Funding the delivery of the National Dementia Action Plan is essential for all Australians impacted by dementia."

The federal government has been approached for comment.