‘Cost of Appearance Ideals’ report released today by Butterfly reveals economic and social impact of body dissatisfaction and weight-based discrimination

A ground-breaking new report from KPMG, commissioned by Butterfly Foundation, has unveiled the startling reality of the impact of body dissatisfaction and weight-based discrimination on Australia’s economy and society.

• More than 4.1 million (18.9%) people aged 15 years and over are significantly affected by body dissatisfaction.
• More than 3.1 million (13.8%) people in Australia had experienced appearance-based discrimination (including weight-based discrimination) in the previous 12 months.
• The annual economic and social cost of body dissatisfaction and weight-based discrimination is estimated as $36.6 billion and $27.6 billion, respectively.

These experiences can affect people from all walks of life. It was found that appearance-based discrimination is particularly prevalent among the age cohort of 15-17 year-olds, especially in females. Additionally, there were higher rates of body dissatisfaction among the LGBTQIA+ community.

Body dissatisfaction and experiencing weight-based discrimination contributes to, and can increase the risk of, developing an eating disorder, as well as other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety and self-harm.

Weight-based discrimination can have devastating impacts on overall quality of life and wellbeing – such as social withdrawal, healthcare avoidance, and deterioration of physical health. In all, these factors have significant economic implications, particularly in healthcare costs and reduced workforce participation and productivity.

Member of the report’s Lived Experience Advisory Group Evie Gardiner shared that “as a larger-bodied person, I have experienced firsthand the pervasive and detrimental impact of weight-based discrimination in many areas of my life.”

I have faced discrimination in educational, work and social settings which has resulted in missed opportunities, avoidance and harm. When people are made to feel unwelcome or unworthy because of their appearance, it affects not just our opportunities but our overall health and wellbeing.”

CEO of Butterfly Foundation, Jim Hungerford, says that the findings of this report are integral to understanding the national impact of appearance ideals on individuals, families, business and government.

“This report highlights the devastating impact that society’s unrealistic appearance ideals have on millions of Australians. Impact of this extent and scale calls for urgent action to dismantle the far-reaching consequences of appearance-based discrimination.

We need greater public investment in prevention strategies to lower these avoidable costs and shift the financial burden away from individuals – who currently bear 58.5% of the total costs. No one should feel like they need to spend thousands of dollars to conform to societal expectations, nor should anyone be discriminated against because of their appearance.

Preventive measures can ease the strain on our healthcare system, improve workplace productivity, and enhance overall societal wellbeing – an essential step towards building a healthier, more just Australia.” Jim said.

Member of the report’s Lived Experience Advisory Group, Jeanette Chan said:

“My earliest memory of body dissatisfaction was at age six, and the impact of appearance ideals followed me into adolescence and adulthood, contributing to an eating disorder. I’m hopeful this report will drive much-needed attention and investment toward addressing body dissatisfaction and appearance-based discrimination, which come at a significant personal and economic cost.”

To see the full results of Butterfly’s Cost of Appearance Ideals report, visit: https://butterfly.org.au/who-we-are/research-policy-publications/cost-of-appearance-ideals-2025/

ENDS

Media Contacts

About Butterfly Foundation
Butterfly is the national charity for all Australians impacted by eating disorders and body image issues, and for the families, friends and communities who support them. Butterfly changes lives by providing innovative, evidence-based support services, treatment and resources, prevention and early intervention programs, and by advocating for the needs of our community.

Editor and producers note
Please include the following support line details in all media coverage of this story and refer to the Mindframe Media guidelines for safe reporting on eating disorders.

Anyone needing support with eating disorders or body image issues is encouraged to contact:

• Butterfly National Helpline on 1800 33 4673 (1800 ED HOPE) or visit butterfly.org.au to chat online or email, 7 days a week, 8am-midnight (AEST/AEDT).
• Eating Disorders Victoria Helpline on 1300 550 23
• For urgent support call Lifeline 13 11 14