Mixed census messages take the good with the bad

FINDINGS from Healthy Loddon Campaspe’s 2025 Active Living Census have indicated that residents across the City of Greater Bendigo, Campaspe, Central Goldfields, Loddon, Macedon Ranges and Mount Alexander shires are smoking, vaping and gambling less and engaging in physical activity and muscle-strengthening exercise more.

However, 31 per cent of participants reported they have experienced some level of food insecurity, 25 per cent rated their health as fair or poor, and 34 per cent recorded low-to-moderate life satisfaction.

In addition, 66.5 per cent reported being overweight or obese, 58 per cent reported risky single-occasion alcohol consumption, and only 10 per cent said they are meeting vegetable intake recommendations.

Healthy Loddon Campaspe regional steering group spokesperson Jess Howard emphasised that the data provides much more than numbers on a page.

“It tells us what would help people live healthier and more connected lives,” she said.

“These findings provide evidence local councils, communities and other organisations can use for partnering and investing where it matters most.

“Good local data helps communities make better decisions

“Health and wellbeing is everyone’s business.

“The census data helps us understand what our communities need and what partnerships and actions can have the greatest benefits.”

Over 8000 residents took part in the census between 26 May and 6 July 2025.

The results – all of which are available on the Healthy Loddon Campaspe website – will be used to guide local planning and support local organisations seeking resources for services and projects that respond to community needs.