Victorians found to have healthiest habits in the nation, survey finds

Victorians have beaten out other states and territories in the nation to have the healthiest habits in Australia in a new survey. But we’re falling behind in two key areas.

Victorians have the healthiest habits in the country — except for low vegetable intake and exercise — according to a new study.

People from Victoria drink less than any other state or territory, with more than three-quarters of adults not exceeding recommended alcohol guidelines.

Fewer than one in ten Victorians smoke, according to analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics data by health insurance company iSelect.

Victoria still leads the nation in terms of exercise, yet findings revealed less than one quarter of Victorians aged over 15 met physical activity guidelines.

And mental health problems were a concern, for a state that faced the world’s harshest covid lockdowns thanks to the Andrews Government.

Victorians Eddie Espinosa, Kate Lawrence with daughter Lulabelle are leading the charge with healthy habits in the state. Picture: David Smith

Melbourne mum and duo Eduard Espinosa and Kate Lawrence acknowledged it was easier for their family to stay in shape than most, with Eddie running a gym in St Kilda.

But the proud parents of two young daughters said the key to healthy living was in the fundamentals of diet and exercise.

“A good thing about Victoria and Australia in general is there are so many great parks,” Ms Lawrence said.

“An easy way to start instilling that healthy lifestyle is to go for a walk to the park and the kids have a run around.”

She said healthy habits should start young.

“Our youngest one’s only six months so she’s only really just starting to have food but our two-year-old is really around a balanced, healthy diet, so trying different foods and vegetables,’’ she said.

The family owns a gym so staying healthy is a priority. Picture: David Smith

Along with smokes and booze, the analysis measured fruit and veg intake where it was revealed under six per cent of Victorians were meeting their daily vegetable quota, the second lowest percentage of any state in Australia.

Victoria narrowly beat the ACT to claim the top spot in the overall rankings, edging out the capital state in physical exercise and low alcohol consumption.

Mental health problems remain the most significant long-term health issue in Victoria, affecting nearly nine per cent of the population.

Queensland was last on the list, ranking high among Australian states for excessive alcohol consumption and the highest percentage of daily smokers.