What is a healthy BMI according to Australian guidelines?

Australian health guidelines follow WHO standards, recommending a healthy BMI range of 18.5 to 24.9 for adults. This range is associated with the lowest risk of health problems. A BMI below 18.5 is considered underweight, 25-29.9 is overweight, and 30 or above is obese.

Are BMI ranges different in Australia?

No, Australian BMI ranges follow the same international standards as the WHO and most other countries: underweight (<18.5), normal weight (18.5-24.9), overweight (25-29.9), and obese (≥30). These ranges are consistent across Australia and align with global health standards.

How does Australia use BMI in healthcare?

BMI is used by Australian healthcare professionals as a screening tool to assess weight-related health risks. It helps identify individuals who may benefit from lifestyle interventions, dietary advice, or further health assessments. The Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care uses BMI data for population health monitoring and public health initiatives.

What is the average BMI in Australia?

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the average BMI for Australian adults is approximately 27, which falls in the overweight category. However, this varies by age, gender, and state. Australian health guidelines encourage maintaining a BMI within the healthy range (18.5-24.9) to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.

Should Australians use metric or imperial units?

Australia officially uses the metric system, and this calculator supports both metric (kg, cm) and imperial (lbs, ft/in) units for convenience. Australian health guidelines typically use metric measurements, but BMI calculations are equivalent regardless of the unit system used. The formula works the same way with both systems.

How accurate is BMI according to Australian health guidelines?

Australian health authorities recognize BMI as a useful screening tool but acknowledge its limitations. BMI does not distinguish between muscle and fat mass, so it may not be accurate for very muscular individuals, athletes, pregnant women, or older adults with reduced muscle mass. Australian healthcare professionals recommend consulting with a GP or healthcare provider for a comprehensive health assessment that considers additional factors beyond BMI.

⚖️ BMI Calculator Australia

Australia-focused BMI calculator. Enter height and weight to get your BMI, classification, healthy range, chart, and guidance.

Australian Health Guidelines for BMI

This calculator uses Australian health guidelines based on World Health Organization (WHO) BMI standards, as recommended by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care.

Height

Weight

Gender

BMI Standard

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BMI in Australia

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Last updated: 2025-10-21 — Compiled and reviewed by Calvin (Health Research, FreeCalculators.app)