Hobart has been crowned the healthiest city in Australia, according to new research from Monash University.
The study, published in Environment International, ranked the healthiness of major urban centres across the country based on environmental and socioeconomic factors.
Researchers looked at everything from temperature and air quality to light pollution, urban design and economic conditions.
Lead author and Monash Professor Yuming Guo said cities with fewer environmental risks and better living conditions scored the highest.
“Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, had the highest overall EQHI,” Guo said.
“The differences were significant, with Hobart showing exceptionally good results, while Darwin had the lowest scores, reflecting poorer environmental and socioeconomic conditions.”
“Similarly, Melbourne’s higher score compared to Sydney reflects a combination of better air quality, favourable climate and other environmental conditions and higher socioeconomic advantages, which are linked to lower health risks.”
Deputy Premier Guy Barnett said the government “want to ensure we are working to maintain Tasmania in this position”.
“Tasmania is leading the way in being the best place to live, work and raise a family,” he said.
