Wellbeing has inched up but anxiety worsened for the fifth consecutive survey. Relatively low levels of wellbeing are also being reflected in optimism about the future, which has been trending down since the start of 2023. Financial stress is at its highest in 8 years. 1 in 3 Australians are feeling worse off financially compared to the same time last year, with 30-49 year olds under the most stress. Concerns around household savings are at a survey high with 3 in 4 Australians trying to save. Debt stress has also increased to a survey high, but it is loans from family & friends and pay day loans causing the most stress. 1 in 5 Australians hold BNPL debt but has the lowest debt stress. Those hurting most are less likely to own their own home, more likely to rent, are in less stable employment, under 50, on lower incomes, and more likely to be women.