Which two indicators are key in measuring health status in Australia?

Life expectancy and infant mortality rate are essential indicators of health status because they provide critical insights into the overall well-being of a population. Life expectancy represents the average number of years a person can expect to live based on current mortality rates, reflecting the effectiveness of a healthcare system, living conditions, and societal factors such as nutrition and safety. A higher life expectancy typically indicates better health outcomes and quality of life.

The infant mortality rate, on the other hand, tracks the number of deaths of infants under one year of age per 1,000 live births in a given year. This indicator is a significant measure of the health of a community, highlighting the effectiveness of maternal and child health services, as well as socioeconomic conditions. A lower infant mortality rate usually signifies better healthcare access for mothers and infants, improved socioeconomic conditions, and health practices.

Together, these two indicators provide a comprehensive overview of the health status in Australia, allowing for a broader assessment of the population's health and the effectiveness of health policies and services. They serve as foundational metrics for public health research and planning, making them crucial in the context of health priorities in the country.