For the first time, the non-profit Global Wellness Institute (GWI), a research organization for the global wellness industry, has released data on Australia’s wellness economy. The sector grew at an impressive 10.9% rate in 2022-2023 to reach US$126.7 billion.
GWI defines the wellness economy as industries that enable consumers to incorporate wellness activities and lifestyles into their daily lives. Australia punches well above its weight, turning into a major player in Asia Pacific wellness industry.
It ranks 10th in the world for the size of its wellness economy. It also comes 7th globally in its per capita spending on wellness, at US$4,824. The report found Australia boasts one of the world’s fastest-growing wellness economies. The country showed an annual rate of 7.5% from 2019-2023.
Key areas of growth spread across many sectors. Such as wellness tourism (up 32.9% from 2022-2023), thermal/mineral springs (up 21.5%), wellness real estate (up 13.9%), mental wellness (up 10.1%) and physical activity (up 9.4%).
Retrospectively, Australia has advanced in global ranking by the size of its overall wellness economy. It moved effectively from #13 in 2019 to #10 in 2023. The country also ranked #4 in Asia Pacific, despite a comparatively small population.
Australia, a major wellness real estate market
“With beautiful landscapes, a growing wellness real estate market and a strong fitness tradition, it’s no wonder that Australia ranks in the top 10 wellness economies globally,” said Susie Ellis, GWI’s Chair and CEO.
“We’re thrilled to present this data on Australia’s wellness economy for the first time. And so pleased that our partnership with Anytime Fitness can shine a light on the scale, strength and opportunity of Australia’s wellness sector,” she added.
The ‘2025 Global Wellness Economy: Australia Report’ is available on GWI’s Geography of Wellness platform thanks to a new partnership with Anytime Fitness, Australia’s largest gym network.
Wellness real estate is one of Australia’s strongest wellness sectors. At US$25.7 billion in 2023, the country ranks second in Asia-Pacific after China. It is also fourth worldwide for the size of its wellness real estate sector.
The country has pioneered many wellness communities. They support healthy lifestyles, vibrant social connections, and sustainable living. Other wellness sectors that rank in the global top 10 are physical activity, wellness tourism and workplace wellness.
